What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road surface due to the presence of water. This phenomenon typically happens when there is a significant amount of water on the roadway, and the tires cannot displace it quickly enough, resulting in a layer of water forming between the tires and the pavement. When hydroplaning, the car can start to glide or slide uncontrollably, leading to a loss of steering and braking control.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of maintaining safe speeds in wet conditions and ensuring that tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Proper driving techniques, such as reducing speed during rain or stormy weather, can help manage this dangerous situation effectively.