call for a free consultation (800) 242-2962
(800) 242-2962 call for a free consultation
(800) 242-2962call or click for a free consultation
Posted in Car Accidents on November 14, 2019
Hydroplaning is one of the scariest things that can happen when you are driving a vehicle. Most of us have experienced some form of hydroplaning, which refers to the skidding or sliding of a car’s tires across a wet surface. Understanding what hydroplaning is, how you can avoid it, and how to drive through it can help you avoid serious car accidents and injuries on the roadway.
Typically, when a car encounters water on the roadway, the tires are able to scatter the water. A car will hydroplane when there is more water than the tire can scatter. Water pressure in front of the tire forces water under the tire. This causes the tire to separate from the road surface and lose traction. The result of this is a loss of steering, braking, and power control.
Tires have tread on them designed to channel water from beneath the tire, creating more friction with the roadway and prevent most instances of hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning can occur on any wet roadway. What many people do not know is that the first few minutes of light rain can be the most dangerous for drivers. This is because the light rain mixes with oil residue on the road, creating an even slipperier surface that can cause vehicles traveling at higher rates of speed to hydroplane. However, anytime the roadway is wet, whether it is still raining or not, a motorist can hydroplane.
The most effective way to prevent hydroplaning is through proper maintenance and planning.
If you begin to hydroplane, do not panic. These incidents typically only last a few seconds, and you can take action to prevent disaster.