What should you do if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road surface due to water, causing the vehicle to glide on the water layer instead of the road. This can lead to a loss of steering control, and it’s critical to respond appropriately.

Steering gently into the direction you want to go is the correct action during hydroplaning because it helps you regain control of the vehicle. When you hydroplane, the tires are not making adequate contact with the pavement, and therefore the vehicle may not respond to steering inputs as it normally would. By steering gently, you allow the vehicle to realign itself with the direction of travel, maximizing the chances of regaining traction and control.

Other methods, such as accelerating quickly or braking hard, can exacerbate the hydroplaning situation. Sudden movements can increase the likelihood of losing control, as they may cause the tires to lose any remaining grip on the road. Similarly, turning the steering wheel sharply can lead to a spin or skid, further complicating the recovery process. Therefore, gentle steering combined with maintaining or slightly reducing speed is the most effective approach to regain control when experiencing hydroplaning.