What Is Hydroplaning & What Do You Do When It Happens?
The midwestern weather is always changing, but rainstorms are the least dangerous, right? Wet roads may seem harmless, but they can potentially pose just as much of a driving hazard as snow and ice. Water on the road surface puts you at risk of a hydroplaning incident. But what is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between your vehicle’s tires and the road surface, causing a temporary loss of traction. In this situation, your tires no longer grip the road, essentially leaving your car to glide on water, causing you to lose traction, experience loss of steering control, ineffective braking, and lose control over your vehicle.
Unfortunately, hydroplaning can happen in an instant and is considered one of the most dangerous wet-weather driving hazards. In this blog, we’ll cover what hydroplaning is more in-depth, including what causes it, when it’s most likely to happen, how to respond to it if it does, and, most importantly, how to prevent it.
What Causes Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning typically results from a combination of road, weather, and tire conditions. When water on the road builds up faster than your tires can channel it away through the tread, your car is at risk. Several factors increase the likelihood:
- Worn Tire Tread: Low tread depth reduces your tires’ ability to displace water efficiently
- Underinflated Tires: Improper tire pressure changes the shape and performance of your tire’s contact patch
- High Speeds: As your speed increases, your tires have less time to push water aside
- Poor Road Surface Drainage: Pooled water from clogged drains or uneven surfaces can catch drivers off guard
According to published research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, tire condition plays a significant role in a vehicle’s stability in wet conditions, making proper tire maintenance a critical safety factor.
When Is Hydroplaning Most Likely to Happen?
Hydroplaning is more likely to occur during the first few minutes of rainfall, when oil and water create an extra slick surface on the road. However, the risk rises significantly during heavier downpours and storms, when rainfall can accumulate rapidly and overwhelm road drainage systems, resulting in more puddles and standing water.
While summer tends to bring the highest incidence of hydroplaning due to sudden downpours, it can happen in any season, especially in poorly drained areas or during unexpected rainfall events. According to a study in Preventive Medicine Reports, wet pavement remains one of the leading causes of weather-related crashes throughout the year.
What Should You Do If Your Vehicle Starts Hydroplaning?
If your car begins to hydroplane, staying calm and acting correctly can prevent an accident. Here’s what to do:
Stay Calm & Don’t Slam the Brakes
Your first instinct when you feel your vehicle is out of control may be to hit the brakes hard, but that can make things worse. Sudden braking can lock your wheels and cause your vehicle to skid uncontrollably.
Ease Off the Gas Pedal
Lift your foot gently off the accelerator. Slowing down gradually allows your tires to regain traction without making abrupt weight shifts that could destabilize your car. If you’re on the highway and letting off the accelerator, your brake lights won’t be signaling others about your slowdown, so if you feel your vehicle’s speed significantly slowing, engage your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Steer in the Direction You Want to Go
Keep your hands steady on the steering wheel and guide the vehicle gently in the direction you want to go. Avoid overcorrecting or making sharp turns, which can lead to a spinout.
Wait for Control to Return
Be patient. As your vehicle and your tires reconnect with the road, you’ll regain control. Remain calm and continue to avoid any sudden movements until full traction is restored.
How to Prevent Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is often preventable with the right maintenance habits and cautious driving behavior. Here are several practical steps to reduce your risk:
Maintain Proper Tire Tread Depth
Tire tread plays a crucial role in channeling water away from the tire’s surface. Once tread wears below 2/32 of an inch, your tires become significantly more prone to hydroplaning. Regular tire inspections and timely tire replacements installed by trusted professionals can help keep you safe.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Under-inflated tires don’t maintain optimal contact with the road, making them more vulnerable in wet conditions. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before any long trip.
Slow Down During Wet Weather
Speed is one of the biggest factors in hydroplaning. On wet roads, even speeds under the posted limit can be too fast. Reduce your speed during rain and give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely and avoid hydroplaning. Additionally, avoid using your cruise control during rainy weather conditions or on wet roads, as it can worsen a hydroplaning incident.
Avoid Puddles and Standing Water
If you see pooled water ahead, steer around it when it’s safe to do so. Standing water can hide potholes and increase the chance of hydroplaning, especially at higher speeds.
Common Questions About Hydroplaning
How fast do you have to be going to hydroplane?
Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 35 mph, particularly when conditions are right, such as with worn tires or heavy rain. The risk increases with higher speeds and poor tire conditions.
Do certain types of tires prevent hydroplaning?
While no tire is completely hydroplane-proof, tires with deep grooves and specialized tread patterns, like those found in high-performance or all-season tires, are better at channeling water to help avoid hydroplaning incidents. Regular tire maintenance is key, regardless of type.
Can all-wheel drive prevent hydroplaning?
All-wheel drive improves traction during acceleration, but it does not prevent hydroplaning. Once your tires lose contact with the road, drivetrain configuration makes little difference. Good tires and cautious driving remain your best defense.
Stay Safe with a Tire Check from Telle Tire
Worried about your tread depth or tire condition heading into the summer storm season? Take it to Telle. Our expert technicians can assess your tires, check pressure levels, and recommend replacements when necessary, helping you stay in control regardless of the weather conditions.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and if you’re unsure about your tires, schedule a visit with your nearest Telle Tire & Auto Centers location today.