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How to reduce the risk of hydroplaning

On Behalf of | Sep 11, 2018 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Late summer and early fall can be very rainy in Brooklyn and surrounding areas. As a result, it’s important for motorists to know basic safety tips for driving in this type of weather.

According to traffic safety experts, hydroplaning is one of the top causes of weather-related car crashes. Hydroplaning occurs when rainwater gets between a vehicle’s tires and the surface of the road. If the layer of water becomes too thick, the tires can float off the pavement and lose all contact with the road, making it easy to spin out of control. The risk of hydroplaning is usually highest during the first few minutes of rainfall. This is because oil residue on the pavement mixes with the water to create slick spots. Once the oil washes away, the risk reduces, but drivers should remain cautious on all wet roadways.

Experts say that slowing down can greatly decrease the risk of hydroplaning. However, if a driver does start to hydroplane, there are steps he or she can take to regain control of the vehicle. First, drivers should remember not to hit the brakes, as this can cause the vehicle to skid. Instead, they should turn into the slide until the vehicle realigns with the lane and is once again under control. They should also try to remain calm and remember not to oversteer, which can cause the vehicle to spin out.

No matter the weather conditions, drivers are responsible for maintaining safe control of their vehicle at all times. Negligent drivers who spin out and cause car accidents could be held legally liable for any resulting injuries to occupants of other vehicles. These victims might want to have legal assistance when seeking appropriate compensation for their medical expenses and other losses.

Source: Auto Credit Express, “Safety Tips During Rainy Season“, Megan Foukes, Sept. 7, 2018

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