Driving in a hydroplane storm can be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences for any motorist. Whether it's a heavy rainstorm or simple standing water on the roadway, understanding the mechanics of how your vehicle interacts with water is essential for your safety.
What is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning is defined as a situation where your tires lose their grip on the road and ride like skis on a film of water. Wet road surfaces can cause tires to ride up on this film starting at about 35 mph. When this happens, hydroplaning can cause your vehicle to skid, leading to a potential loss of control.
Why Does It Happen?
Hydroplaning is usually caused by excessive speed. As your speed increases, your tires become less effective at wiping or channeling water away from the road surface. While most tires channel water away at lower speeds—similar to how a windshield wiper cleans glass—this ability diminishes as you go faster.
Key Factors and Danger Zones
Speed Thresholds: In a standard passenger car, partial hydroplaning can begin at speeds as low as 35 mph, even when water is only 1/10 of an inch deep. To prevent hydroplaning, the ideal speed of the vehicle should be below 35 mph.
Total Loss of Contact: After 55 mph, tires may totally leave the road surface. Will you not hydroplane at 45 mph? While 45 mph is safer than 55 mph, you are still at risk. At high speeds, there is no friction available to brake, accelerate, or steer.
Tire Condition: Hydroplaning is less likely to occur if your vehicle is equipped with tires that have adequate water-channeling tread. Conversely, driving on bald or worn tires makes the problem significantly worse.
Road Hazards: Potholes and hydroplaning often go hand-in-hand during storms, as deep water in potholes can trigger a sudden loss of traction.
How to Prevent Hydroplaning
The best way to avoid hydroplaning is to follow these proactive steps:
- Slowing down is the most effective method; hydroplaning can be helped by driving slower.
- Maintain tires with good tread depth.
- Avoid outer layers of the road: In a heavy rainstorm, try to drive on the highest point of the road (such as the center lane) where water is less likely to pool.
What to Do If You Start to Slide
What should an operator do if the vehicle starts to hydroplane? If you feel your tires lose contact, remain calm and follow these steps:
Keep both hands on the steering wheel to maintain maximum control.
Slowly take your foot off the gas pedal. Let the vehicle slow down naturally. Do not slam on the brakes, as this can trigger an uncontrollable skid.
Turn slowly and only as much as necessary to stay on the road.
Brake gently only if absolutely necessary.
Test Your Knowledge: Common Questions
Hydroplaning occurs when: It occurs when there is standing water on a roadway and tires lose contact with the pavement.
What are the three types of hydroplaning? Drivers often search for the 3 types of hydroplaning (Dynamic, Reverted Rubber, and Viscous), with dynamic hydroplaning being the most common on flooded roads.
What is the most dangerous type of hydroplanning? Any situation where tires totally leave the road surface, making braking and turning impossible.
Are you considered to be speeding if you hydroplane? While not a legal definition, hydroplaning is a clear sign you are driving too fast for the current road conditions.
