Driving at 50-60mph on the highway and unexpectedly losing control due to hydroplaning is a situation nobody desires. Hydroplaning happens when your tires lose contact with the road surface and instead ride on a layer of water. This loss of traction can swiftly lead to a loss of control over your vehicle, which is both frightening and hazardous regardless of the vehicle’s size. Today, Highway 30 Garage wishes to provide guidance on preventing hydroplaning and offer advice on how to handle it if it occurs, aiming to reduce the risk of accidents.

Strategies for Preventing Hydroplaning

1) Reduce Speed. Slowing down allows tires to maintain better contact with the road, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Additionally, it gives drivers more time to react to changing road conditions. Avoid sudden maneuvers or hard braking, as these actions can further increase the likelihood of losing control on wet surfaces.
2) Balance & Rotate Your Tires on a Routine Basis. Regular tire balancing and rotation are important maintenance tasks. By routinely balancing and rotating your tires, you ensure even wear and improve traction. This practice also extends tire lifespan and enhances overall driving performance and safety.
3) Consider Investing in High-Quality Tires. If you often drive in rainy conditions, investing in high-quality tires is wise. However, irrespective of your location, opting for premium tires is always a sound investment for enhanced safety and performance on the road.
4) While it is Raining, Do Not Use Cruise Control. Using cruise control in wet conditions can lead to dangerous situations like hydroplaning. It can hinder your ability to react quickly to changing road conditions, potentially exacerbating the risk of accidents. Disabling cruise control allows for better control over your vehicle, enhancing safety during inclement weather and reducing the likelihood of hydroplaning incidents.
5) Stay Clear of Large Pools of Water. It’s tempting to drive through large puddles, but it’s best to resist the urge, even though it might be challenging for some to suppress their inner child. Driving through significant pools of water significantly raises the risk of hydroplaning in your vehicle.

Guidelines for Recovering from Hydroplaning

1) Release the Accelerator. As soon as you detect hydroplaning, ease off the accelerator. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as it can lead to loss of control and potential sliding off the road. Heavy braking during hydroplaning increases the risk of crashing, so refrain from such actions to maintain control of your vehicle.
2) Mindfully, Turn into the Slide. Experts suggest steering in the direction of the slide, even though it may seem counterintuitive. Realigning your tires with the direction of travel aids in regaining control of the steering, facilitating maneuverability during the hydroplaning situation.
3) Wait for the Wheels to Regain Traction. Once traction is restored, you’ll feel it right away. Resist the urge to overreact by swerving or braking excessively, even though it may be alarming. Once your tires reconnect with the road beneath the water, you’ll regain the ability to steer effectively.
4) Be Patient and Relaxed. Recovering from hydroplaning may require a moment. Exit the highway and allow yourself a few minutes to gather your composure before continuing your journey once it’s safe to proceed.

Towing, Roadside Assistance & More in Cassia, Gooding, Jerome & Twin Falls Counties in Magic Valley, Idaho & Jackpot, Northern Nevada

For towing and roadside assistance services in Dallas, TX, whether due to an accident or a disabled vehicle, rely on the expertise of Highway 30 Garage professionals.