When we happen to drive on the road while there is heavy rain, we can run the risk of being victims of aquaplaning, we explain what it is and how to avoid it
This winter period is very particular and also riskier compared to other periods of the year, both for those who drive and for those who are simple pedestrians. We talked about what to do in case of heavy rain and in this article we mentioned the phenomenon of aquaplaning. Aquaplaning is a phenomenon very dangerous which occurs especially when we find ourselves driving on very wet asphalt. Let’s see what this phenomenon is and what can be done to avoid it.
How the danger increases | What is aquaplaning and how to avoid it
When driving on wet asphalt it is very important to proceed moderate speed because it is precisely by increasing the speed that one risks suffering thehydroplaning. You must also take into account how much visibility there is on the road and, if necessary, proceed at a speed even below the minimum speed limit, to be safer. If the vehicle goes to low speed, the tires are able to cut through the water and proceed with peace of mind. TO intermediate speed the water settles in front of the tires creating a sort of wall, so it is essential to stay calm and hold the steering wheel with both hands. If instead we proceed to sustained speedyou lose grip on the asphalt and the risk of skidding increases.
What causes aquaplaning? | What is aquaplaning and how to avoid it
As we said before, speed is one of the key points to take into consideration when driving on wet asphalt, but there are other factors to consider. The tyres they can make the difference when there is heavy rain, some of them in fact have greater grip than others, so we advise you to refer to your trusted body shop. In fact, tires must be taken into account dimension and of depth. The last two factors to consider are the type of road surfacewhether it is a healthy or damaged road and the depth of puddles. As it should be, in fact, the deeper the puddle, the greater the risk of aquaplaning.
What to do about aquaplaning
Below you will find a series of precautions to take:
- Stay calm and avoid sudden maneuvers.
- Hold the steering wheel steady with both hands positioned at 9.15.
- Do not suddenly release the accelerator, but gradually ease the pressure on the pedal.
- Do not brake or use the handbrake.
- Once you cross the puddle everything will return to normal
- The tire makes the difference in case of aquaplaning
By analyzing this last point, in fact, we want to tell you that a new tire in good condition it greatly reduces the risk of aquaplaning compared to an old one. This happens because the new tire leaks up to 30 liters of water per second at a speed of 80km/h, but you always have to keep it under control. Obviously, the more the tires are used, the more the thickness decreases.
We hope this guide helps you avoid aquaplaning. Continue to follow us on techgameworld.com for other guides from the world of motors and much more.