Which action should be avoided if your vehicle begins to hydroplane?

• A. Hard braking or steering.
• B. Slow down gradually and avoid hard braking or steering.
• C. Turn sharply to the left.
• D. Accelerate to regain speed.

Answer: (A)

When tires lose contact with the road because of a layer of water, you’re hydroplaning and have very little traction or control. In this moment, abrupt actions can push you into a skid since the tires aren’t gripping the surface. The key is to avoid braking or steering hard. Instead, ease off the accelerator gradually and keep the steering as straight as possible. Let the tires regain contact with the road, which lets traction come back. Once you feel the vehicle responding again, brake gently and steer smoothly to reach a safe area.