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Understanding proper driver safety is integral any time you’re on the road, but this is especially true when it’s raining. If you’re driving through heavy rain, you’re more likely to hydroplane, which can be a confusing and potentially dangerous situation if you’re not sufficiently informed about how to deal with this situation. Below is some essential information regarding hydroplaning and how to deal with it.

What is Hydroplaning?

Put simply, hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle is sliding along the water on the road, rather than driving the road itself. This usually occurs during heavy rain, when a significant amount of water is coating the road. If you’re unprepared for this event, you may be surprised when your vehicle jerks unexpectedly or moves in an unstable way. This situation can be quite startling, especially for a new driver, or a driver who hasn’t experienced hydroplaning before. Being prepared for hydroplaning is a key part of driver safety curriculums.

How Do I Avoid Hydroplaning?

driver-safetyWhile hydroplaning can lead to serious consequences if you’re unprepared, it can be easily avoided if you’re familiar with driver safety procedures. When driving through rain, especially heavy rain, drive at slower speeds, avoid large puddles, and be mindful of sharp turns. Additionally, as a preemptive measure, always ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Subpar tires can be less firm, making it easier for you to lose control.

How Do I Hydroplane Safely?

There are several ways to ensure your safety if you’re forced to hydroplane. When you begin to hydroplane, ease off the gas to keep the car as stable as possible and make sure you have a firm grasp on the wheel, as jerking suddenly can cause you to lose traction. Don’t slam the brakes, but instead try to glide through the hydroplane so that you stay in control of your vehicle. Ultimately, remain calm. Even though hydroplaning isn’t an ideal situation, it’s one that you can navigate through safely as long as you take the appropriate driver safety measures.

 

 

To ensure that you or your young driver is familiar with how to drive safely in any situation, contact The Driving School, based in Fairfield, OH, but with additional locations in Oxford, Ross, and Eaton. With over 25 years of experience, The Driving School is committed to providing holistic driver education to both teenagers and adults, covering all Ohio state requirements and ensuring that every driver is literate in driver safety. To learn more, call (513) 523-­7001 or visit their website.

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