Indiana BMV Urges Drivers to Prepare Vehicles for Severe Weather Week

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles issued guidance March 10 urging drivers across the state to prepare their vehicles for dangerous conditions during Severe Weather Preparedness Week, with flash flooding, hydroplaning risks, and downed traffic signals among the hazards the agency highlighted.

Flash flooding is the deadliest weather-related threat on roadways, killing more people each year than any other severe weather event. The BMV's guidance was direct on what to do if water becomes unavoidable: if a car stalls in floodwater, get out immediately and never drive around barricades, past road closed signs, or through water covering the road. If a vehicle enters water, do not try to open a door. Exit through a window or sunroof and never get back in the car once out.

On wet roads, the BMV pointed to tire condition as a critical starting point. Drivers should check tread wear before heading out, since bald or badly worn tires dramatically increase the chance of hydroplaning, which is most likely to occur right after rain begins. Motorists should also watch for motorcyclists who may have pulled off to the side of the road or sheltered under a bridge during a downpour.

Power outages add another layer of risk. When traffic signals go dark, the BMV said to treat every such intersection as a four-way stop: come to a full stop, then proceed with caution.

The Indiana Driver's Manual, available at any BMV branch location or through IN.gov/BMV, offers a broader set of guidance for handling severe weather conditions on the road. Indiana averages around 22 tornadoes each year, according to statewide weather guidance, and severe storms can also produce damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and dangerous lightning in addition to flooding.

BMV branch locations themselves are also part of the safety picture. Each branch operates under a Severe Weather Plan designed to protect both customers and official documentation during emergencies. Anyone inside a branch when severe weather hits will be directed to an interior room away from windows. Beyond that, if severe weather strikes during normal business hours while staff are on site, branches are open to any member of the public needing shelter, whether or not they have BMV business to conduct.

Branch locations, hours of operation, online transaction options, and the nearest 24-hour BMV Connect kiosk are all listed at IN.gov/BMV. Media inquiries can be directed to Greg Dunn, the BMV's Executive Director of Communications, at grdunn@bmv.in.gov, by office at 317-233-7200, or by mobile at 463-325-2222.