Hydroplaning is very similar to driving on ice. It can happen when there’s a layer of water on the surface of the roadway. If your tires lift up to the surface of this water, rather than touching the pavement, you can lose control of your car. Many people will slide off of the road or even spin out of control.
Hydroplaning often happens very suddenly, so it’s important to know what to do in advance. Here are some tips that can help you if you find yourself in this situation.
Take your foot off the gas
You don’t need to hit the brakes, which will not help because the tires are not actively touching the pavement. But hydroplaning often happens because you’re moving quickly, with the speed of the car helping to lift your tires on top of the water. As such, simply taking your foot off of the gas often allows the car to slow down and the tires to become submerged again, helping you regain control.
Stay calm
Additionally, try to stay calm and collected. Don’t panic or suddenly turn the wheel in any direction. This will only make the situation worse. Remember that hydroplaning is usually quick.
Unlike ice, which can cover incredibly long stretches of a roadway, hydroplaning generally happens at low spots or a puddle. At highway speeds, this may mean that you’re through the hazard in just a second or two. Remember that it doesn’t take long and that if you just maintain control of your car, you will likely get through the water and back on dry pavement quickly.
Unfortunately, other drivers may lose control of their vehicles or make other mistakes while hydroplaning. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by such a driver, you need to know what legal options you have.
