Five Top Tips to Keep You From Hydroplaning on the Highway

The Hampton Roads area of Virginia gets its fair share of rainfall throughout the year. With this rainfall, flooding occurs with cities such as Portsmouth and Norfolk being particularly susceptible. Flooding roadways can pose dangers for drivers because of the possibility of hydroplaning.

Hydroplaning occurs when water lodges in between your car’s tires and the roadway. This causes the car to lose grip and traction, making it nearly impossible to steer or brake. Hydroplaning occurs most frequently when drivers are travelling at speeds above 45 miles per hour. Here are five quick tips that can help ensure your safety on the wet roads and prevent hydroplaning:

1) Periodically check and maintain proper tire pressure

2) Make sure your tires have adequate tread

3) Drive slowly through deeper puddles

4) Rotate tires periodically

5) Avoid driving in the shoulders of the roadway, where more water usually accumulates

If you end up hydroplaning, you should always remain calm. Do not suddenly slam on the breaks or your vehicle will continue to lose control. Slowly ease onto the brakes and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel in order to keep your automobile on a straight path. Hydroplaning has been known to cause various other recent crashes in our area.

For more safe driving tips, contact the Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers. Reach us by telephone at 757-455-0077, or visit us online at www.CooperHurley.com. Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers is the author of Top Twenty Tips for Car, Truck or Motorcycle Accidents. Remember if you are injured, seek medical attention right away. The police officer will always ask you if you are hurt, so if you are answer “yes” and accept help. When it really counts, count on Cooper Hurley.