How to Reduce the Risk of Crash Hydroplaning: Essential Tips for Safe Driving
Driving a road vehicle is a potential hazard, with the possibility of accidents resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Over 5 years, I have conducted research on distracted driving and have read numerous studies on situational awareness. Safe driving requires concentration and attention to the driving environment. Properly managing situational awareness, particularly in adverse weather conditions, is crucial to minimizing the risk of accidents.
The Importance of Situational Awareness (SA)
Situational Awareness (SA) refers to a driver's complete understanding of relevant factors in the driving environment. This includes being alerted to potential hazards that could lead to a crash. SA begins well before a trip, involving several key components that collectively enhance a driver's preparedness and ability to handle unexpected situations.
Pre-Driving Preparation for Wet Weather
The best way to ensure safe driving in wet conditions is to prepare your vehicle and plan your route. Start by verifying your vehicle's condition, particularly the tread on your tires. If your tire tread is nearing the indicator marks, it is advisable to consult a tire dealer for replacement suggestions. Replacing both tires on an axle at the same time is usually recommended to maintain consistency in handling and traction. Additionally, consider using rain tires, which have special tread patterns designed to improve traction in wet conditions.
Pre-Travel Weather Forecast
Check the local weather forecast before your trip. Knowing potential wet weather conditions can help you mentally prepare for the possibility of hydroplaning. While changing tires may be too late on the day of the trip, being aware of impending heavy rain can heighten your awareness and preparedness.
Proactive Measures to Avoid Hydroplaning
Several proactive measures can help drivers avoid hydroplaning situations:
Slow Down
The faster you drive, the higher the risk of hydroplaning. When the vehicle moves through water, it has less time to disperse water from under the tire, increasing the likelihood of the tire riding up on the water surface. This is analogous to a speedboat coming up on the step when it accelerates. In both cases, loss of control is the result.
Smooth Inputs to Vehicle Controls
Do not make sudden jerky inputs to the steering or pedals. Jerking the steering wheel can cause the front wheels to lose contact with the road, leading to understeer. Similarly, abrupt pedal inputs can decrease control. Instead, maintain gentle and smooth control of the steering, brakes, and accelerator to avoid sudden changes in speed or direction.
Awareness of Surroundings
Paying attention to the traffic around you can also help avoid sudden stops or swerves to avoid a collision. However, being aware of your surroundings should be a continuous practice, irrespective of weather conditions.
Conclusion
By taking these steps, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of hydroplaning and other related accidents. Prioritizing situational awareness, pre-driving preparation, and smooth driving techniques can greatly enhance your safety on the road, especially in wet weather conditions.