When floodwaters rise, common sense should prevail—but recent events in Brisbane show that some motorists are still taking unnecessary risks. In one case, an Enoggera woman found herself facing legal consequences after allegedly driving into floodwaters on a closed road, causing her car to float away. Queensland Police are now urging residents to avoid dangerous decisions that put lives at risk.
Ignoring Road Closures Can Land You in Court
On 10 March, a 58-year-old woman from Enoggera approached a closed section of Newmarket Road in Stafford. At first, she turned away—but then she made a U-turn and drove straight into the floodwaters. Her car quickly became submerged and was later found floating unattended. Fortunately, she managed to escape, but she now faces a charge of driving without due care and attention. She is set to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 14 April.
More Drivers, More Rescues, More Risks
She wasn’t the only driver making dangerous choices. On 9 March, a 61-year-old Murarrie woman needed rescuing after her car got stuck in floodwaters on Wynnum Road in Cannon Hill. Later that day, police helped tow another vehicle out of floodwaters in Tingalpa after a 59-year-old Cannon Hill man attempted to drive through deep water.
The following day, an 84-year-old man drove past a road-closed sign in Oxley and found himself trapped in a partially submerged vehicle. Police officers, who had been deployed from Cairns for disaster response, assisted in getting him to safety and ensuring he got home unharmed.
Why Driving Through Floodwaters Is Never Worth It
Brisbane Disaster District Coordinator, Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman, has made it clear: driving into floodwaters is reckless, even if the water seems shallow. Vehicles can lose traction in as little as 15 centimetres of water, making it impossible to maintain control.
Police warn that while no injuries occurred in these cases, the outcome could have been far worse. Ignoring road closures not only endangers the driver but also puts emergency responders at risk.
Authorities are urging residents to take safety seriously, follow road closure signs, and never assume they can outdrive floodwaters.
Stay Safe and Let Emergency Crews Do Their Job
As of press time, crews are still working to remove debris, fallen trees, and other hazards left by the heavy rains. Many traffic signals remain out of service, and motorists are advised to drive cautiously, giving way where necessary.
For life-threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000). For storm damage or non-urgent assistance, contact the State Emergency Service (SES) at 132 500. And most importantly—if it’s flooded, forget it.
Published 11-March-2025