It’s spring here in Saint Louis, and you know what that means. Rain. Lots and lots of rain. Of course while the wet weather makes for some beautiful flowers in May and June, it can be “difficult” to drive in. It goes from difficult to downright scary when the rain starts to form puddles on the highways. Why? Because that’s when hydroplaning occurs.
Hydroplaning happens when there is water separating your tires from the ground causing a sudden loss of traction. Usually happening at higher speeds, you should know what to do – and not do – if you suddenly lose control of your car as a result of hydroplaning.
Step 1: Stay Calm
When your car hydroplanes, the first reaction for most people is to panic. It is very important that you try not to panic because this will make it harder for you to think clearly. When you panic, you will also be less likely to avoid danger in these situations and this is something that you want to avoid.
Do Not Hit The Brakes
It is very tempting to hit the brakes when your vehicle starts to hydroplane. This is something that you need to avoid because slamming on the brakes will cause your vehicle to hydroplane more. Hitting the brakes could also cause a spinout depending on the braking system that your vehicle has. This will put you in even more danger.
What To Do With A Front-Wheel Drive
If your vehicle is a front-wheel drive model with ABS and traction control, you need to head for an open area. This should be the lane ahead of you or the side of the road because you should not swerve. The hydroplaning will generally not last long, but it is important that you have a bit of space to regain control.
Once you have space, you need to push lightly on the accelerator and steer toward the empty area. This provides your vehicle with enough time to adjust to the new driving area. You will also have greater control over the vehicle as you do this.
What To Do With A Rear-Wheel Drive
If you are driving a rear-wheel drive vehicle that does not have ABS or traction control, you will need to take a different approach to hydroplaning. You will need to find an empty space where you can gain control of your vehicle. You should steer toward the empty area and slowly ease off the accelerator. You may not need to slow your vehicle to a complete stop to regain control.
You should be able to regain control of the vehicle before it comes to a full stop. However, you need to be focused and aware of the fact that you might need to stop. If you feel you need to bring your vehicle to a complete stop, you have to move to the side of the road and put your emergency lights on.
Turn Off Cruise Control
In order to reduce the chance of hydroplaning, you should avoid using cruise control in heavy rain. You will be less likely to lose control when you are in complete control of the vehicle. While cruise control can make it easier to drive, it will not help when you hydroplane.
There are a number of steps that you should take when your vehicle hydroplanes. The steps you take will vary depending on the vehicle and whether it is a front or rear-wheel drive.
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