What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning is a phenomenon that occurs when a vehicle's tires lose traction due to water on the road surface. This happens when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the roadway, preventing the tires from making contact with the surface. As a result, the vehicle can begin to slide uncontrollably, leading to a loss of steering and braking control. This is especially dangerous at high speeds because the driver may not be able to respond effectively to changes in the road or conditions.

Understanding hydroplaning emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper tire tread depth and ensuring that tires are suitable for wet conditions. While reducing speed on wet surfaces can help mitigate the risk of hydroplaning, it does not define the term itself. Similarly, driving with worn-out tires increases the risk of hydroplaning, but the definition is specifically centered around the loss of traction due to water. A vehicle collision may occur as a result of hydroplaning, but it is not a characteristic of what hydroplaning is.