It is April, the month of showers. As we prepare for more rain, we wanted to give some tips on controlling your vehicle in the event of hydroplaning. If you don’t know what a hydroplane is, Oxford Languages defines it as the uncontrollable slide of a vehicle on the wet surface. The road’s wet surface acts as a barrier between the wheel and the road, so the driver loses traction with the road. Your car can skid on the water, and you may lose control of your car’s direction, causing an accident if you are not prepared. Here is how you can avoid an unstable car in this situation.
How To Avoid Hydroplaning
When it is raining, there are many factors that you can control to avoid hydroplaning. Avoiding conditions that will allow you to lose traction is valuable. As with any dangerous condition, drive slow. As you increase your speed in the water, your traction decreases. Take notice of the condition of your tires. A worn tire tread increases the chance of hydroplaning. Areas of the road with deeper puddles of water can guarantee you lose traction from the road quicker. Driving slow with new tires in flat, dry land is the best way to avoid hydroplaning.
How To Handle Hydroplaning
Sometimes, it is unavoidable. No matter how safe you are on the road, hydroplaning can be unavoidable. If you are in that situation, the first thing to do is remain calm. With a clear mind, you can make good decisions. Slow down by easing your foot off the gas pedal. Do not slam on the brakes to remain safe. If you need the brakes, lightly pump the brakes, or brake normally if you have anti-lock brakes. You should have regained control of your car after this. If you need it, pull off to the side to take a minute and calm down. It can be scary when you lose traction with the road, so taking a few breaths before continuing your drive can be hugely beneficial to avoid future mistakes.
If you find yourself in the unfortunate event of a collision after hydroplaning, remember that everybody makes mistakes. Sometimes collisions are not avoidable. When looking for a repair shop, look for shops that work directly with your insurance carrier, have fully-trained repair technicians, and have managers on-site daily to address all questions, so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Look for a location near you and get back on the road.