Hyderabad: Rainy season brings with it many dangers for motorists on roads. One such situation is known as ‘hydroplaning’ or ‘aquaplaning’, a road hazard that can cause vehicles to lose grip and control on wet surfaces.
When a vehicle’s tyres lose contact with the road’s surface, due to water building between them, the situation is termed as hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning creates a thin film that prevents proper contact between a vehicle tyre and the road surface and leads to sudden loss of steering and braking control, often at higher speeds or with worn-out tyres.
Safety experts advise drivers to drive slowly during rainfall, maintain proper tyre pressure and tread, avoid sudden manoeuvres, and steer clear of puddles. Following the tracks of vehicles ahead can also help reduce risk, as water gets displaced by their tyres.
Automobile experts caution that no vehicle is immune to hydroplaning, from hatchbacks and SUVs to motorbikes, trucks, and even electric cars, all are vulnerable in heavy rain.
Vishal, an automobile expert with over a decade of experience in the industry, reiterates that no vehicle is immune to hydroplaning. “It is often noticed that smaller cars lose contact with the road, skid and end up crashing. It is mostly because when driven in flooded water, brake liners of small cars get jammed leading to a possible mishap. However, most likely, SUVs due to their disc drum brake system escape from skidding,” he says. The age and condition of the vehicle tyres are not dependent, he adds.
Hyderabad police have urged motorists to follow safety precautions to avoid rain-related mishaps. Authorities further stress that simple precautions can prevent accidents.
Officials advise tyre checks with at least 4 mm tread depth and proper air pressure, and ask vehicle users to replace worn tyres. Drivers are also advised to cut speed by 15–20 km/hr during heavy rain, stay close to ruts, and handle curves cautiously.
“In case of hydroplaning, motorists are requested to ease off the throttle, press the clutch and avoid any sudden steering. Careful adherence to certain safety measures can help reduce accidents this monsoon,” said a traffic police official.
How to avoid Hydroplaning?
- Reduce speed
- Increase following distance
- Use headlights and wipers
- Avoid sudden movements
- Check your tyres
What to do if you Hydroplane?
- Ease off the accelerator
- Do not brake or steer sharply
- Maintain your course
