Motorists have been told “you have no idea what could be hidden under standing water.”

That was the advice from Humberside Police casualty reduction officer, Barry Gardner after many motorists were seen driving inappropriately through flood waters last night

Residents were today still counting the cost of the damage of the heavy deluge last night which closed a number of streets in North East Lincolnshire. Some of the damage to homes was caused by motorists creating waves by driving too fast.

That pushed water into homes, adding to the misery of residents.

PC Gardner warned drivers they could face fines of £200 and six penalty points if they are seen being careless or inconsiderate.

“Inconsiderate driving is an offence. It is like careless driving and you can be issued with a traffic offence report,” said the officer.

“That could be a fine or even a court appearance where magistrates have the power to impose six to eight penalty points and a fine of up to £200.”

Any incident of careless or inconsiderate driving would have to be witnessed by a police officer.

PC Gardner said: “Going through standing water you have to go really steady. You do not know what is there. It might be really shallow, but it could also be hiding a big hole.

“It is a leap of faith. You never know and if you are going through standing water it could come into the vehicle and cause it to stop and could cause irreparable damage,” he added.

He also advised motorists to stay in second gear when motoring through standing water.

He recalled the extensive damage caused by the tidal surge of December 5, 2013 when cars were swept away, including a police car.

PC Gardner said: “It shows the power of water when there is a lot of it about.”