Aquaplaning or how to get out of a skid!

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Aquaplaning or how to get out of a skid!

Severe rainfall causes large puddles to form on the roads, and driving into them at speed often results in aquaplaning or loss of traction. We will explain how to behave in such a situation to keep your car on the road. According to drivers, one of the most dangerous situations on the roads is skidding. The risk of losing traction is especially high during heavy rains, such skidding is called aquaplaning. This phenomenon occurs when a cushion of water forms between the tire surface and the ground. When the tread cannot effectively drain excess water, the tire begins to float on it - resulting in loss of traction and control over the car.

Note: the risk of aquaplaning increases with the amount of water on the road and the speed of the car.

In this case, good tires with sufficient tread depth and proper tire pressure reduce the risk of aquaplaning (too low pressure increases the likelihood of skidding), but the correct driver reaction is key here.

When the car is skidding, do not brake. Instead, you should press the clutch and take your foot off the gas pedal to reduce the speed of the car. It is also very important to maneuver the steering wheel in such a way that you can maintain the desired direction. If the wheels are pointed completely to the right or left, then after regaining traction, you may find that the car suddenly, uncontrollably changes direction. Also, when moving the car during a skid, you should not accelerate!

How to avoid skidding?

- Reduce speed when driving in the rain. Even new tires won't do much good if you drive too fast.

- Check your tire tread depth - the minimum value is 4 mm.

- Check your tire pressure - too low a value promotes skidding.

- Avoid driving through puddles.

How to react in case of aquaplaning?

- Stay calm!

- Press the clutch and take your foot off the accelerator to reduce speed.

- Do not turn the wheel from one side to the other. Instead, set it in the desired direction of travel until you regain control of the car.

- If you skid, do not brake or accelerate. This will only reduce control of the car.

Remember these simple rules, they can save your good mood and property.