What to do if I Hydroplane? – A-1 Driving Schools | 19 Locations in Atlanta, GA

What to do if I Hydroplane?

What Is Hydroplaning, And How Do You Avoid It?

If you hydroplane (lose traction and start sliding on wet roads), stay calm and take these steps right away:

🚨 1. Don’t slam on the brakes

  • Braking hard can make you skid more.

  • Ease off the gas pedal slowly.

🛞 2. Steer gently in the direction you want to go

  • Don’t jerk the wheel — just steer smoothly to stay straight.
  • If your car’s back end is sliding out, gently steer into the skid to regain control.

⚙️ 3. Wait until you regain traction

  • Your tires will eventually reconnect with the road.

  • When they do, you can begin to gently steer or brake if needed.

⛔️ 4. Avoid sudden moves

  • No sharp turns.

  • No quick acceleration or hard braking.

🧠 Bonus: How to prevent hydroplaning

  • Drive slower in rain or puddles.

  • Make sure your tires have good tread and are properly inflated.

  • Avoid using cruise control on wet roads.

  • Drive in the tracks of the car in front of you if possible.

If you have any further questions about driving contact us at A1-Driving Schools! Courses like risk reduction can help deepen your understanding of situations like these, so try and take one!

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