Hydroplaning is a dangerous phenomenon where a layer of water builds up between your car tires and the road, causing you to lose control. As springtime approaches, it’s important to know how to stay safe on wet roads. This article will analyze the steps you can take to avoid it.
Steps for Avoiding Hydroplaning
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.
- First and foremost, slow down; driving too quickly in wet conditions increases your chances of hydroplaning exponentially—stick to posted speed limits whenever possible (especially in heavy rain), even if other drivers are going faster than you.
- Secondly, make sure your tires are properly inflated at all times; this will help ensure maximum tire tread contact with the road surface while driving in rainy weather conditions.
- Finally, consider investing in new tires if yours have seen better days; tires that have worn tread or bulges/cuts in their sidewalls should not be used on wet roads as they greatly increase your risk of hydroplaning due to reduced contact with the road surface.
Hydroplaning is a serious concern for drivers during wet weather months, but by following a few simple precautions like slowing down in rainy conditions, maintaining proper tire inflation levels, and replacing old/worn tires when necessary, you can ensure a safe ride.