As the rainy season sets in, drivers should be aware of the dangers they may face on the road, including hydroplaning. This is the loss of traction between a vehicle’s tires and the road surface, which occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the road.
Hydroplaning can have catastrophic effects on a vehicle’s handling, leading to accidents and injuries. When a vehicle hydroplanes, the driver loses control of the steering, acceleration, and braking. This can cause the vehicle to skid or spin out of control, making it difficult to avoid obstacles or other vehicles on the road.
Hydroplaning can catch anyone off guard, including the most experienced drivers. It can happen if you drive through a pool of water on the road, especially during heavy rainfall. Here’s all you need to know about hydroplaning, including its causes, signs, and how to avoid it.
What Causes Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when the water on the road accumulates faster than the tires can displace it, causing a layer of water to build up between the tire and the road. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Water Depth: As the depth of water on the road surface increases, the risk of hydroplaning also increases. When the depth of water exceeds the depth of the tire tread, the tire loses contact with the road surface and begins to hydroplane.
- Vehicle Speed: The faster a vehicle moves, the more difficult it is for the tire to displace water from the road surface. Hydroplaning can occur can happen at speeds as low as 56 kph.
- Tire Tread: Tires with less tread depth have less grip and are less effective at displacing water from the road surface.
- Road Conditions: The condition of the road surface also plays a role. Roads with poor drainage or uneven surfaces can increase the risk of hydroplaning.
How will you know when the vehicle you’re driving hydroplanes?
The most common signs of hydroplaning include the vehicle’s steering feeling light or loose, a loss of traction or control, and the feeling of the vehicle “floating” on the road. If you notice any of these signs, gently apply the brakes until you regain control of the vehicle.
How to prevent hydroplaning
To prevent hydroplaning, you need to take necessary precautions to minimize the risk. Here are some tips to help you:
- Slow down and drive at a safe speed when driving on wet roads. This will give your tires more time to displace water and maintain contact with the road surface.
- Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. Replace worn-out or bald tires immediately to reduce the risk of.
- Avoid driving through stagnant water on the road as much as possible because it increases the risk of hydroplaning.
- Brake and accelerate gradually. Sudden braking or acceleration can cause your vehicle to lose traction.
