Hydroplaning happens when tires lose contact with the road and skim across water — a dangerous situation that may strike at speeds as little as 35 mph during heavy rain. Proper tire maintenance and cautious driving are key to staying secure.
Remember back in highschool, when driver’s ed classes taught you not only where to position your hands on a steering wheel, but additionally what to avoid in tough driving weather?
That’s still relevant today. One of the vital common risks drivers face in inclement weather is hydroplaning. Here’s exactly what it’s, easy methods to avoid it, and what to do if it arrives.
What’s Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when a tire encounters more water than it will probably scatter. As speed increases, the tires begin to ride up on the layer of water, very similar to waterskiing. This implies the motive force cannot brake, speed up, or turn, and eliminates all traction from the tires—and it happens in a matter of seconds.
Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as little as 35 mph, and the likelihood increases when traveling at 55 mph or higher. Based on AAA data, cars are at best risk through the first 10 minutes of a downpour, especially if the water is greater than one-tenth of an inch deep.
“When hydroplaning, you might be literally riding on top of water with none control of your vehicle,” said AAA Automobile Doctor John Paul.
Light rain, nonetheless, mixed with oil residue on the road surface, can even create slippery conditions that may result in hydroplaning.
How Can Drivers Avoid Hydroplaning?
To avoid hydroplaning, experts recommend the next:
- Keep tires properly inflated and maintain good tread.
- Rotate and replace tires when vital.
- Decelerate on wet roads.
- Avoid driving in outer lanes where water tends to pool and avoid puddles.
- Attempt to drive within the tracks of the vehicle in front of yours for a transparent path.
- Don’t use cruise control.
- Avoid sharp turns or hard braking.
- Listen to a “shushing” sound — it is a signal to decelerate.
What Steps Can Drivers Take to Get well from a Hydroplane Incident?
- Keep the wheels straight and reduce speed.
- Don’t brake. Stay calm and ease off the accelerator. Allow your vehicle to regain traction first.
- If you must brake, simply pump it, and achieve this gently with a lightweight foot.
- Understand anti-lock brakes. If you’ve got anti-lock brakes, you may brake normally, because the technology is programmed to mimic pumping when vital.
This Article First Appeared At www.automotive-fleet.com
