Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But
it
can
if
your Driving Through Flowing Water
tires do not have much tread or
if
the pressure in one or
more is low. It can happen
if
a lot of water is standing
on the road.
If
you can see reflections from trees,
telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops
“dimple” the water’s surface, there could be
hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There
just isn’t a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning.
The best advice is to slow down when
it
is raining.
Driving Through Deep Standing Water
Notice:
If you drive too quickly through deep
puddles or standing water, water can come in
through your engine’s air intake and badly damage
your engine. Never drive through water that
is
slightly lower than
the
underbody
of
your vehicle.
If
you can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water,
drive through them very slowly.
Fla
ng
or rushi
-
ater creates strong
forces. If you try to drive through flowing
water, as you might at a low water crossing,
your vehicle can be carried away.
As
little as
six inches
of
flowing water can carry away a
smaller vehicle. If this happens, you and other
vehicle occupants could drown. Don’t ignore
police warning signs, and otherwise be
very cautious about trying to drive through
flowing water.
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
e
Besides slowing down, allow some extra following
distance. And be especially careful when you
pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear
room ahead, and be prepared to have your
view restricted by road spray.
Have good tires with proper tread depth. See
Tires
on
page
5-53.
4-1
9
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