Hydroplaning and Wet Road Skid Recovery¶

Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between vehicle tires and the road surface, causing complete loss of traction, braking, and steering control. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 56 km/h (35 mph) in heavy rainfall or standing water.

Immediate Steps During Hydroplaning¶

Do Not Touch the Brake Pedal: Slamming on brakes while hydroplaning locks the wheels and causes the vehicle to skid uncontrollably once traction returns.
Ease Off the Accelerator Slowly: Ease your foot off the gas pedal to let aerodynamic drag and engine friction slow the vehicle down naturally.
Hold the Steering Wheel Straight: Keep your steering wheel pointed straight in the direction you want the vehicle to travel. Avoid sudden steering wheel turns.
Wait for Traction Re-engagement: As the vehicle decelerates, tires will cut through the water film and regain pavement contact. Once traction returns, apply gentle braking if needed.

Recovering from Road Skids¶

Rear-Wheel Skid (Oversteer / Fishtailing)¶

Steer in the Direction of the Skid: If the rear of your car swings to the left, gently turn the steering wheel to the left. If the rear swings to the right, turn to the right.
As the vehicle straightens out, counter-steer gently to prevent fishtailing in the opposite direction.

Front-Wheel Skid (Understeer)¶

If the vehicle continues straight despite turning the steering wheel, release the accelerator completely.
Allow the front tires to regain grip before gently attempting to guide the vehicle back into the lane.

Preventing Wet Weather Loss of Traction¶

Replace tires when tread depth drops below 3 mm (4/32 in).
Maintain proper tire inflation pressures checked monthly.
Disable Cruise Control on wet or icy roadways. Cruise control can cause automatic downshifting and wheelspin on standing water.