Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires can no longer grip the surface of the road. Contrary to popular belief, a vehicle can hydroplane even with small amounts of water on the road or after a light rain shower. This is due to the combination of oil and water making it difficult for a tire’s tread to grip the asphalt. Hydroplaning is scary enough without adding a construction zone to the mix. So, what should you do if it’s raining and you’re entering a construction zone? Consider the following tips:

Slow Down – You likely see posted signs informing you of a construction zone approaching and to decrease your speed. Please heed all construction signs and slow down whether it is raining or not.

Be Aware of Your Environment – A construction zone adds extra factors that a driver must consider. Watch for workers and construction vehicles operating in the rain. Keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles as you drive through the construction zone.

Drive Smart – If there is a vehicle in front of you, leave plenty of room so an accident doesn’t occur due to hydroplaning. If possible, drive in the tire tracks left by the vehicle in front of you.

How to Avoid Hydroplaning in General

When a vehicle hydroplanes, the driver loses control of steering, braking, and power control. This may last for a split second or multiple seconds depending on the road condition, tire tread, environment, and other factors. In both cases, the driver and the surrounding motorists are at the mercy of Mother Nature. However, there are certain things you can do to regain control if your vehicle hydroplanes. Consider the following:

• Avoid making violent turns with the steering wheel.
• Don’t slam on your brakes, as this will cause your vehicle to spin out of control.
• Take your foot off the accelerator.
• Wait until your tires re-grip the road to push the accelerator.

The attorneys at Clark & Smith Law Firm hope you never hydroplane or experience a hydroplane-related accident. If you do, contact us to discuss the details. If you hydroplaned in a construction zone and the Department of Transportation did not follow the proper safety guidelines, you may have a legal case to pursue. We have significant and successful experience taking the DOT to court and are ready to fight for you, if needed.