Driving on the road, or typically anywhere, is something that requires all of your attention. However, there are various factors that can contribute to your ability to maneuver the car safely and properly that may eventually lead to an accident.
For instance, when there’s thawing snow or a film of water on the road, the tires of a car may be prone to hydroplane. It can be quite a dramatic turn of events when this occurs, so it’s advisable for drivers to be aware of how it happens, how to prevent it and how to handle it. Continue reading to learn more about hydroplaning:
How Does Hydroplaning Occur?
As mentioned above, hydroplaning typically occurs on road surfaces that may be covered by a film of water. When you’re driving on such a terrain, the tires of your vehicle may be prone to losing grip over the surface, which can lead to losing contact or control.
Hydroplaning is a little similar to skidding, but the main point of difference is that you’re usually facing standing water. Because of the water’s state combined with the general wetness of the road, the car tires cannot mitigate against the slip and carry on.
How Is Hydroplaning Caused?
The main cause of hydroplaning can be the standing water on the road, but there are still other points that can lead to such a dangerous situation. For example, the vehicle speed can play a big factor. If you go even 35mph or above, there’s a big chance that hydroplaning may occur.
There are also other things to consider, such as the vehicle itself. The kind of tire types that you have on or the automobile’s weight can directly affect how likely the displacement from driving on a wet road can occur.
How Can You Avoid Hydroplaning?
It is possible to prevent hydroplaning by practicing a couple of countermeasures before you set off on the road. Here are a couple of different things you should take note of and try out to avoid hydroplaning:
- Avoid Speeding. Wet roads are beyond your control, but your car’s speed isn’t. Be sure to slow down when you spot standing water on the road surface.
- Follow Existing Car Tracks. If there are cars right ahead of you, you can try to follow and drive through the tracks. You’re encouraged to find less wet routes instead as well.
- Inspect the Wheels. Check up on your car tires beforehand since they’ll be prone to the road’s standing water. The tread depth must be at least 2/32nd of an inch.
- Improve Your Tire Choice. If your tires seem rickety or inadequate, don’t take the risk on the road. Go find a new set of wheels to don your car with for safety before driving.
How Can You Deal with Hydroplaning?
If you’re in a situation where your vehicle hydroplanes, be sure to avoid panicking and focus on slowing down the vehicle. Brakes may do very little until your tires gain contact with the road again, so just hold the steering wheel and maneuver the car as best as you can. Once you’re at a reasonable speed, go off the road and pull over to collect yourself and check on the tires.
Conclusion
Hydroplaning can lead to a very unfortunate series of events and undesirable end results. To protect your safety and the condition of your car, be sure to look more in-depth at the prevention measures and keep your eyes on the road.
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