What to do when your car starts aquaplaning

Jul 20, 2011, 3:06 GMT

Berlin - Heavy rain or storms make driving difficult but that is not the only reason why drivers should slow down.

Hitting a patch of water on the road at speeds above 80 kilometres an hour can cause a car to aquaplane and even throw it into a dangerous skid. The feeling is similar to driving on ice but there is no need to panic.

Aquaplaning occurs when a vehicle's tyres can no longer push away the amount of water on the road. The car rises up on a film of water and suddenly both steering and brakes no longer work properly. The hazard increases in curves, in underpasses or where surface irregularities cause large puddles to form on the highway.

Rule number one is not to apply the brakes suddenly and not to turn the steering wheel. Take your foot off the accelerator and let the car roll, pumping the brakes lightly if the vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes fitted as standard.

Some experts recommend depressing the clutch as well in order to disengage the gearbox. The car should be allowed to roll until the driver regains control.

Worn tyres increase the risk of aquaplaning so it is important to ensure that these have sufficient depth of tread. If the tread depth drops below three millimetres it is time to replace the tyres. Keeping tyres at the pressure recommended by the manufacturer is also important. Consult your vehicle handbook for details.