What should you do if your vehicle begins to hydroplane?

When a vehicle begins to hydroplane, it is crucial to react appropriately to regain control and ensure safety. The correct response is to ease off the gas and steer straight. This method is effective because hydroplaning occurs when water builds up between the tires and the roadway, causing a loss of traction. By easing off the gas, you allow the vehicle's speed to decrease, which can help the tires to reconnect with the road surface as the water is displaced.

Steering straight helps maintain control and stability of the vehicle. Making sharp turns or trying to brake hard can lead to a loss of control, as the tires may not be able to respond effectively when they are not in full contact with the road. Similarly, accelerating in this situation might exacerbate the hydroplaning effect, as it can increase the vehicle's speed and further impede traction.

Understanding these dynamics can help drivers react constructively during adverse weather conditions, maintaining safety on the road.