Aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning is when water builds up between your vehicle’s tyres and the road surface. Your tyres are not in contact with the road and your vehicle becomes unresponsive to steering, braking or accelerating.
If you have ever experienced aquaplaning, you already know that it can be a pretty worrying experience so we will let you know how best to avoid this scary event.
Before driving:
- Check your tyres: Ensure that they have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated. Worn tyres have less grip and are more prone to aquaplaning. In the UK, the legal limit for the tread on tyres is 1.6mm but we recommend changing your tyres at 3mm.
For a guide to tread depth, check out our YouTube video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsVn_zz0_ik
- Avoid driving through deep puddles: If possible, steer around large puddles or areas of standing water.
- Check your windscreen wipers: Make sure they are in good working order to clear water from your windscreen and improve visibility.
- Adjust your driving style: Reduce your speed, especially in heavy rain or on wet roads. Slow down in areas with standing water or puddles.
If you start to aquaplane:
- Don’t panic: Remain calm and avoid making sudden movements.
- Ease off the accelerator: Gradually reduce your speed by gently releasing the accelerator pedal.
- Hold the steering wheel straight: Avoid making sharp turns, as this can worsen the situation.
- Don’t brake hard: Braking abruptly can cause your car to skid further.
- Wait for the tyres to regain traction: Once you feel the steering wheel respond again, you can gently apply the brakes to slow down.
Additional tips:
- Be aware of road conditions: Pay attention to weather forecasts and road reports. If heavy rain is expected, consider delaying your trip but if you have to drive, be vigilant for water sitting on the roads.
- Use your headlights: Turn on your headlights, even during the day, to improve visibility and make your car more visible to other drivers.
- Increase your following distance: Maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you to allow for extra stopping distance in wet conditions.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of aquaplaning and stay safe on the road during wet weather.
We are always happy to check your tyre treads at any of our branches in Sudbury, Haverhill, Diss, Saffron Walden, Bury st Edmunds or Stowmarket
