How to handle hydroplane situations

Should you find yourself in a hydroplane situation, research has shown that you should take a firm grip of the steering wheel, take your foot off the accelerator and do not touch the brakes. You should attempt to keep your vehicle on a safe heading by not turning the steering wheel. Hopefully, the vehicle will regain traction and you will be able to safely control the situation.

There is little that you can do to remove yourself from a hydroplane situation once it happens. Instead, it is important to prevent this situation all together. The best way to prevent your vehicle from hydroplaning is to slow down in wet or inclement weather. The faster you go, the more likely you are to hydroplane. It is not uncommon to see vehicles hydroplane at speeds as low as 30-40 mph.

• Read more in the column, "Hydroplaning Hazard"