21/07/2023
With parts of the country seeing a month’s worth of rain this weekend, knowing how to handle your car when it ‘hydroplanes’ will help you in case of an emergency. Hydroplaning occurs when your vehicle's tires lose traction with the road surface, causing them to ride on a layer of water present on the road. This loss of grip significantly impairs a driver's capacity to control and slow down the vehicle effectively.
If you find yourself hydroplaning while driving, follow these steps to regain control of your vehicle safely:
Stay Calm: Keep a steady grip on the steering wheel and try to remain calm. Panicking can make the situation more dangerous.
Don't Slam on the Brakes: Avoid slamming on the brakes abruptly, as this can cause the car to skid and lose control further. Instead, apply gentle pressure to the brake pedal if necessary, or ease off the accelerator to slow down gradually.
Steer Straight: Try to steer the vehicle in the direction you want to go without making sudden or sharp movements. Aim to keep the car moving in a straight line.
Reduce Speed: To regain traction, reduce your speed by easing off the accelerator pedal gently. This will allow the tires to make better contact with the road.
Avoid Puddles: If possible, avoid driving over large puddles or areas of standing water, as these are more likely to cause hydroplaning.
Focus on the Road: Pay attention to the road ahead and any potential hazards. Look for areas of the road that may have better traction.
Regain Traction: As the tires regain traction, you will feel more control over the vehicle. Once the car is stable, you can slowly accelerate again.
Remember, prevention is the best approach to avoid hydroplaning. Drive at a safe speed for the road conditions, especially in wet weather. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have good tread depth to improve their grip on the road surface. If the weather conditions are severe, consider pulling over to a safe location and waiting until the weather improves before continuing your journey.
