Storm drains are designed to help prevent flooding by diverting water from rainstorms, flash floods, or melting snow away from streets, channeling it back to a natural body of water.
Storm drains come in various forms. There are inlets, which are open slits at curb edges at low points of a street, often with grated openings accompanying them. A culvert is a wide pipe spanning various lengths that primarily conveys water beneath a road or railway.
When kids play in or walk through rushing water near a drain that is missing a grate or where the slit has enough depth to accommodate a fallen child, danger looms. Kids or adults navigating waters near a culvert may get swept up by deceptively powerful currents and sent through the culvert. Sometimes muddy or cloudy waters hide a drain pipe, catching people unawares.
ProPublica found that from 2015–2021 in the U.S., at least 35 drownings were attributable to storm drains. Many more people were injured but survived. In numerous cases, state or local governments were aware of hazardous conditions but failed to address them.
Some argue that flagging hazardous openings and installing grates are simple solutions to lower the risk of tragedy. Some government officials counter by stating that grates are expensive, may trap debris and exacerbate flooding, and people who get swept into them may become pinned and drown. Other municipal leaders and engineers believe angled grates provide escape routes, and regular maintenance can prevent grated drains from becoming clogged.
Bottom line: Steer clear of all storm drains during or following rains or snow melt-offs, and avoid walking through any flooded areas.
If you or a family member is injured due to negligence, contact our firm to protect your rights.
