Hydroplaning is a terrifying experience. Even safe driving can result in hydroplaning during bad weather conditions. Drivers often react hastily when they lose control of their vehicles, but this can be a fatal mistake.
Motorists must know how to react when their vehicles hydroplane. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Take your foot off the accelerator;
- Do not use your brakes heavily;
- And turn your steering wheel in the direction that you want to go.
Hydroplaning is particularly common when drivers do not adjust their speed and behavior to inclement weather conditions. Unfortunately, other drivers and passengers often pay the price for this negligence.
If you were injured in a crash that another driver caused, contact an auto accident lawyer from Tien Law Firm. You may be entitled to compensation for time off work, medical bills, and other damages.
Call (919) 800-2000 to schedule a consultation. Read on to learn how to prevent and respond to hydroplaning.
What Is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle’s tires skid across a wet surface. It occurs when the tires encounter more water than they can disperse.
Under normal circumstances, tires should scatter water and maintain contact with the road. If this does not happen, then the vehicle may lose traction and start skidding. Hydroplaning is frightening, and it can result in a loss of control over the brakes and steering.
Hydroplaning is particularly common during the first 10 minutes of a rainstorm. The water mixes with oil on the road, which can make the surface particularly slick.
Tips to Avoid or Minimize the Chances of Hydroplaning?
- Inflate your tires to the correct pressure;
- Make sure your tires have good tread;
- Reduce your speed in wet weather;
- Avoid driving through puddles;
- Be cautious when driving downhill into accumulated water at the base;
- Follow the tracks of the vehicle in front of you;
- Deactivate cruise control; and
- Drive in a low gear.
How to Recover from Hydroplaning
If your vehicle hydroplanes, you should be able to notice the loss of control in braking and/or steering. The vehicle may even veer in a different direction than the one you are attempting to steer it in. Your RPM and speedometer readings may also act unusually.
According to roadway safety organizations, if your vehicle hydroplanes, you should immediately take your foot off the accelerator. Do not use your brakes; this may cause uncontrollable skidding.
Turn your steering wheel in the direction that you want to go to help regain control.
Wait until your tires come into contact with the road surface for more traction, and then you can adjust to the appropriate direction of travel.
If you or a loved one was injured by a negligent motorist, then you may have an injury claim against the at-fault driver. A car accident lawyer from Tien Law Firm can evaluate your case, gather evidence, structure your claim, and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Call (919) 800-2000 to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.