What should you do if your vehicle begins to hydroplane?

When a vehicle begins to hydroplane, it loses traction with the road due to a layer of water between the tires and the pavement. This can make steering and braking ineffective, causing drivers to feel they have lost control. The correct response in this scenario is to ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go. This action is critical because easing off the accelerator allows the vehicle to slow down gradually, helping to restore some traction as the tires reconnect with the road surface.

Steering in the direction you want the vehicle to go helps maintain control and aligns the vehicle's momentum with the intended path. It's important to avoid sudden movements, such as abrupt acceleration or sharp turns, which could worsen the situation and lead to loss of control.

In contrast, accelerating to gain control can exacerbate hydroplaning, as increased speed prevents the tires from making contact with the road surface. Slapping the steering wheel or turning sharply could result in oversteering, further destabilizing the vehicle and increasing the risk of spinning out of control. Staying calm and gently guiding the vehicle is essential for safely navigating a hydroplaning incident.