What should you do if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

When a vehicle starts to hydroplane, it means that the tires have lost contact with the road surface due to water buildup, causing a loss of traction. The appropriate response is to ease off the gas and steer straight. This action helps to gradually decrease the speed without causing swift movements that could lead to further loss of control.

By easing off the gas, the vehicle reduces its speed, allowing the tires to reconnect with the road surface as the water is displaced. Steering straight rather than making abrupt turns or corrections minimizes the risk of skidding or rolling over, as the vehicle is less likely to turn sideways and lose even more traction.

In contrast, briskly turning the steering wheel can lead to oversteering or a spin, as it may cause the tires to lose contact even more. Speeding up is counterproductive, as it can further reduce traction when you need it most. Braking hard can lead to skidding as well, as sudden braking disrupts the balance of the vehicle and its ability to maintain control on wet roads.