Hydroplaning occurs when a tire encounters more water than it can scatter . Water pressure in the front of the wheel pushes water under the tire, and the tire is then separated from the road surface by a thin film of water and loses traction. The result is loss of steering, braking and power control.
Are you at fault if you hydroplane?
You might be surprised to learn that it’s not snow or ice, but simply wet pavement. In fact, 70% of weather-related car crashes are a direct result of wet pavement, which can cause your car to skid out of control. This is also known as hydroplaning. ... But remember, if your car hydroplanes, it’s not your fault!
What is the first thing to do when a car begins hydroplaning?
When a car hydroplanes the most important thing to remember is not to panic. First, do not brake or accelerate suddenly . Since hydroplaning is a loss of traction to the front tires sudden braking slows the front tires but locks the rear tires which can cause a spin out.
How do you know if you’re hydroplaning?
Or maybe you’ve driven through a big puddle a little too quickly and felt your back wheels sway from side to side? If you’ve felt one of these sensations while on the road, chances are your car was hydroplaning — or riding on the surface of the water instead of on the pavement.
What happens during hydroplaning?
Because hydroplaning leads to a loss of traction to front tires , in most situations sudden braking slows the front tires and locks the rear tires. That can lead to a spin out. Also, sudden acceleration can pull the vehicle ahead, which especially dangerous if it’s pointed at a hazard ahead.
What is the safest way to slow your vehicle once it starts hydroplaning?
Reduce your Speed
As soon as the first drops hit your windshield, slow your speed considerably. It is best to drive five to ten miles slower than the speed limit , even slower in heavy rain or windy conditions.
At what speed does hydroplaning occur?
Vehicle speed – always slow down when it’s wet. Hydroplaning can occur at any speed under the right combination of conditions, but some sources define higher speeds as over 40 mph .
Does insurance pay if you hydroplane?
Comprehensive coverage offers protection for any vehicle damage not from a collision, if your car is damaged. Talk to an agent about these areas of coverage and whether to keep or add more coverage to your policy, because they are important in a number of situations, including hydroplaning.
Does insurance cover hydroplane accident?
Does auto insurance cover hydroplane accidents? Depending on your policy, your auto insurance may cover hydroplane accidents . If you get into an accident due to your car hydroplaning, collision coverage would cover damage to your vehicle.
What happens if you hydroplane and total your car?
However, if your car had a manufacturing or design defect, the carmaker might be the one at fault. ... Your car hydroplanes, you lose control, and crash into another vehicle .
What are the four steps to successful passing?
- Scan for hazards, e.g., oncoming vehicles, vehicles approaching from rear, merging vehicles;
- Check for blind spots;
- Signal your intention and accelerate into passing lane;
- Accelerate quickly to an appropriate speed;
- Concentrate on the path ahead;
- Check the mirror for following cars.
How do you fix hydroplaning?
- Remain calm and slow down. Avoid the natural urge to slam on your brakes. ...
- Use a light pumping action on the pedal if you need to brake. If you have anti-lock brakes, you can brake normally.
- Once you’ve regained control of your car, take a minute or two to calm yourself down.
What is the see strategy?
The SEE system is a defensive driving strategy that allows you to avoid collisions , by keeping the space around your vehicle free from obstacles – it is a space management system. ... The SEE system will also help you to avoid a collision in the face of unavoidable dangers, which do sometimes occur.
Does AWD prevent hydroplaning?
Subaru All Wheel Drive (AWD) can pull power away from hydroplaning tires . You will have more control during a tire blow out; the all wheel drive system will pull power away from that wheel, reducing the likelihood of a skid.
What is the 10 mph rule?
The passing speed limit , when safe to pass, is no more than 10 mph.
What steps can you take to avoid hydroplaning?
- Keep your tires properly inflated.
- Rotate and replace tires when necessary.
- Slow down when roads are wet: the faster you drive, the harder it is for your tires to scatter the water.
- Stay away from puddles and standing water.
- Avoid driving in outer lanes where water tends to accumulate.
