Hydroplaning is a phenomenon that every driver needs to deal with at some point. Whether you’re applying for your first driver’s licence or you’re a seasoned driver renewing your vehicle registration, you should know how to avoid hydroplaning and what to do if your car begins to hydroplane.
In this blog, we’ll go over some advice for drivers, especially new drivers, on how to avoid hydroplaning.
What is Hydroplaning and What Causes It?
Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose their grip on the road surface and instead start uncontrollably sliding on the film of water sitting on top of the pavement. Hydroplaning dramatically reduces your ability to brake and maneuver properly, which makes it a serious hazard for drivers.
Hydroplaning results from a combination of different factors, including:
Road Conditions: if the water depth on the surface of the road is more than 1/10th of an inch, the risk of hydroplaning drastically goes up. Factors such as the intensity of the rainfall, the type of road surface, or the drainage conditions can all cause conditions that are ripe for hydroplaning.
Vehicle Speed: tires need time to remove the water between their treads and the road’s surface. At higher speeds, there’s less time for that to happen. Depending on the conditions, hydroplaning can happen at speeds as low as 60km/h. Posted speed limits indicate the maximum speed allowed on that road under ideal driving conditions. If weather conditions deteriorate and affect traction or visibility, you should reduce your speed accordingly.
Tread Depth: Tread depth on a car tire is crucial for preventing hydroplaning because it directly affects the tire's ability to channel water away from the contact surface. If your tread is worn down to less than 2/32nd of an inch, even the best tires in the world will easily start hydroplaning. Worn tires should be replaced ASAP.
Vehicle Weight: heavier vehicles are better at avoiding hydroplaning as their greatest weight provides more force with which to displace the water from the road.
How to Handle Wet Road Conditions
Wet road conditions make for unsafe driving. The best way to handle them is simply to not go out driving in the rain, but that isn’t always an option. If you do need to drive, following these tips will help ensure you stay safe on the road:
Avoid pools of water
Be careful with cruise control
Keep your brakes dry if possible
Above all, stay calm
What to Do if You Start Hydroplaning
If your vehicle starts hydroplaning, you should follow these four basic tips, and you’ll be okay:
Stay calm and keep a clear head – panicking and overreacting can worsen the situation.
Do NOT slam on your brakes – take your foot off the accelerator and slow down. If you have anti-lock brakes, you can lightly tap them to help regain traction.
Hold your steering wheel steady – moving your steering wheel can make things worse and cause you to spin out of control.
Try to avoid coming to a complete stop. If you need a moment to compose yourself, make sure to pull safely off the road entirely as other drivers may also be dealing with hydroplaning.
Visit Registry @ South Trail Crossing for Driver’s Licensing Services in Calgary
Registry @ South Trail Crossing is your go-to source for vehicle registration and driver’s license services in Calgary. We have more information on driving, vehicle registration, and more. Visit us today!
Comments