Skidding and Hydroplaning in Rainy Conditions
What is Hydroplaning?
When the road is wet, going above certain speed can cause your car to hydroplane. Hydroplane is a condition when a small layer of water is formed between your tires and he surface of the road. As a result, your car glides on the water film and you lose control on your vehicle. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 30 mph depending on the amount of water on road, road condition, and the condition of your vehicle. Hydroplaning is more likely if tire pressure is low, or the tires have low tread.
Losing control of your car on wet pavement is a frightening experience.
Skids are scary but hydroplaning is completely nerve-wracking.
Hydroplaning happens when the water in front of your tires builds up faster than your car’s weight can push it out of the way. The water pressure causes your car to rise up and slide on a thin layer of water between your tires.
Taking these simple tips into account can save your life.
You can prevent skids by driving slowly and carefully, especially on curves. Steer and brake with a light touch. When you need to stop or slow, do not brake hard or lock the wheels and risk a skid. Maintain mild pressure on the brake pedal.
If you do find yourself in a skid, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas, and carefully steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. You must be prepared to turn the steering wheel again and again until the front of the vehicle is traveling in a straight line. For cars without anti-lock brakes, avoid using your brakes. If your car has ABS, brake firmly as you steer into the skid.
Avoid hydroplaning by keeping your tires inflated correctly. Maintain good tire tread. Don’t put off replacing worn tires. Slow down when roads are wet, and stay away from puddles. Try to drive in the tire tracks left by the cars in front of you.
If you find yourself hydroplaning, do not brake or turn suddenly. This could throw your car into a skid. Ease your foot off the gas until the car slows and you can feel the road again. If you need to brake, do it gently with light pumping actions. If your car has anti-lock brakes, then brake normally. The car’s computer will automatically pump the brakes much more effectively than a person can do.
A defensive driver adjusts his or her speed to the wet road conditions in time to avoid having to use any of these measures.
Reprinted with permission from the National Safety Council
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