Hydroplaning, sometimes known as aquaplaning, can be nerve-wracking. The phenomenon occurs when the tires of a motor vehicle lose touch with the surface of the road. This can happen in any car, truck or motorcycle, and can lead to potentially deadly hydroplaning accidents. Injuries in a hydroplaning crash can be devastating as most drivers often lose control of their vehicles during this phenomenon. Have you or someone you love been hit by a vehicle that was hydroplaning? If you have been injured or suffered the loss of a loved one because of hydroplaning, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress and more. The experienced car accident lawyers of O'Connor, Acciani & Levy have the expertise and passion to pursue justice on your behalf.
How Hydroplaning Occurs
When a vehicles tires come upon excess water that cant be displaced the tires, the pressure created by the water forces the layer of water beneath the tires, causing the vehicle to drive on this thin, slippery layer rather than the roads surface. Essentially, when a vehicle hydroplanes, it is separated from the pavement. There is no traction. Steering, braking and controlling the vehicle become impossible for the driver. Hydroplaning can happen in any circumstance where a vehicle encounters too much water; however, some factors may increase the risk for a vehicle to hydroplane:- Improperly inflated tires
- Inefficient drainage
- Poorly designed roads
- Speeding
- Water pooling on road surfaces
Preventing Hydroplaning
Poor weather conditions may not be the only cause of a hydroplaning collision. A drivers negligence may also be at fault in causing an automobile to hydroplane. If this has happened to you, an attorney can help to defend your rights and pursue compensation. Follow these tips to avoid a hydroplaning crash:- Avoid puddles and standing water
- Avoid sudden or sharp turns
- Do not use cruise control on slick roads
- Follow the tire tracks of the vehicle you are following
- Keep tires properly inflated
- Replace tires regularly
- Rotate tires regularly
- Slow down and keep proper following distance
- Stick to center lanes
Avoiding A Hydroplaning Accident
If you find yourself hydroplaning, these tips will help you to maintain control of your car and possibly avoid a collision:- Do not panic
- Ease your foot off the gas pedal
- Steer your vehicle straight or along the roads path
- If necessary, gently steer back and forth until the vehicle is straight
- DO NOT slam the brakes this can cause a complete loss of control over the vehicle
- Only brake gently when necessary, otherwise allow the vehicle to decelerate by avoiding the gas pedal
