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Tires are a vehicle's only point of contact with the road, and they maintain the traction between the road and the car. However, when hydroplaning occurs, the tires may lose contact with the road due to the formation of a water layer between the road and tires. This puts the driver at risk of spinning out of control. In extreme cases, it can cause a rollover.

 

Hydroplaning is usually caused by a light shower mixed with oils on the road, which forms a slippery layer. However, it can also occur during a heavy rain, creating a layer of water that cannot be dispersed by the tire tread fast enough. This causes the vehicle to lose traction and slide on a thin layer of water.

 

Although tire treads are meticulously designed to push water away from the tire to prevent hydroplaning, driving on the wet surface increases its possibility. Hydroplaning, otherwise called aquaplaning, manifests in loss of control or steering and braking of a vehicle. Discussed below are the causes of hydroplaning and how to prevent it from happening.

What causes hydroplaning?

Below are the major causes of hydroplaning below:

 

• Poor weather conditions: Rainy, snowy, or icy weather is a big factor that causes hydroplaning. The interesting part is that the weather does not have to be very bad for it to pose a risk. Light showers can cause hydroplaning if you do not have the proper tire tread, or there is excessive oil on the roadways that mix with the light layer or mist, fog, or rain.
• Excessive speeding: Speeding excessively on a slippery or wet road increases your risk of hydroplaning. Driving over 35mph on a wet surface can cause a loss of vehicle traction.
• Slippery road surface: When drops of oil and fluids from other cars mix with the water on a wet road, there is an increased risk of hydroplaning. Oil makes the road slippery, and compounds the entire possibility of hydroplaning. 

Preventing Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning is a dangerous problem. When drivers are not equipped with the right information on what to do in this situation, the result could be catastrophic. Discussed below are some effective techniques for preventing hydroplaning:

 

• Reduce speed on wet roads: Driving fast is always a big determiner in road accidents. To avoid hydroplaning, you must slow down while driving on wet and slippery surfaces. It is generally advised that your speed shouldn't be above 35mph when driving on wet surfaces.
• Install quality tires: Some tires have been specifically designed to overcome conditions that cause hydroplaning. It is important to be intentional when purchasing tires for your vehicle. You should select tires that reduce the chance of problems in wet or rainy weather. There are many tires designed to combat hydroplaning, so talk to our tire specialists today for more information.
• Switch off cruise control: Cruise control may make it difficult to slow your vehicle when hydroplaning is about to occur. To prevent hydroplaning, you should turn off the cruise control system while driving on wet surfaces.
• Stay clear of puddles: Having understood that even a small amount of water on the road can cause hydroplaning, you need to stay clear of any standing water body while driving. Avoiding noticeable bodies of water on the road. This will reduce the risk of your car hydroplaning if one tire loses traction but the others continue to grab at the road.
• Avoid sharp, quick turns and hard brakings: While driving on a wet surface, you should avoid taking quick sharp turns and hard braking. Doing this will help you keep traction and control your vehicle even on the most slippery surfaces.
• Regular tire checks: This involves ensuring that the right amount of air is put inside the tires and ensuring that defective tires are replaced when needed. This will keep the tires in the best possible shape and further reduce the possibility of hydroplaning.

Huron Automotive for Tire Protection

At Huron Automotive, we understand that you rely greatly on your vehicle to execute your daily routines. We know that keeping your car healthy is a priority for you, which is why our ASE-certified mechanics employ the latest factory tools and equipment to keep your vehicle in great shape.

 

If you live in Green Bay, WI or around Ashwaubenon, Bellevue, De Pere, Green Bay, Howard, Luxemburg and Suamico, visit Huron Automotive for your complete automotive service, including all your tire needs.

 

At Huron Automotive, our ASE-certified mechanics make it easier to take care of your car, and for over ten years, we have resolved car troubles of all kinds. Please call or visit one of our shops today to learn more or schedule your next service appointment. We look forward to building a long-term relationship with you.