What should you do if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

When your vehicle begins to hydroplane, the correct response is to grip the steering wheel firmly and steer in the direction you want to go. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tires of your vehicle and the road, leading to a loss of traction. This loss of traction makes it difficult to control the vehicle. By steering in the direction you want to travel, you help guide the vehicle back onto the road if possible, re-establishing control as the tires regain contact with the road surface.

Maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel is essential because it allows you to make precise adjustments to your steering in reaction to the vehicle's movements caused by the hydroplaning. This method emphasizes the importance of control and direction rather than abrupt movements or actions that could exacerbate the loss of traction.

In contrast, accelerating during hydroplaning can lead to a further loss of control, while applying hard brakes might cause skidding and additional instability. Taking your foot off the accelerator, although somewhat beneficial, does not effectively address the need for direction control, which is crucial in a hydroplaning situation. Therefore, the key response to avoid further issues is to steer in the desired direction while maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel