Where there is surface water there is always a risk of 'aquaplaning', which causes you to lose control of your vehicle and places you in grave danger. It is important for every rider to understand what aquaplaning is, how they act if it could happen while they're driving and what they can do to avoid it happening in the first place. The following is quoted by Otodiva.com from RAC regarding the explanation for aquaplaning. Yuk, we'll see!
Understanding Aquaplaning
Aquaplaning is a problem caused when a layer of water is allowed to build up between a vehicle's tires and a wet or waterlogged road surface. At this point, the tires cannot grip the road and cause a lack of traction which means the driver loses control and cannot steer, brake, or accelerate. This can be quite a scary experience and can easily lead to a fatal accident. Some people know this by the alternative name of hydroplaning, both words have exactly the same meaning.
Causes of Aquaplaning
This can be caused by heavy rainfall that pools on the road surface or by puddles of water where there are holes or ruts in the road.. Besides that, Aquaplaning can be exacerbated by two other factors, namely the condition of the vehicle's tires and vehicle speed. It is said that good quality tires can clean the equivalent of one bucket of water from the road every seven seconds, which means that tires in prime condition can handle quite a lot of water when driving in wet conditions. Vice versa, Poor quality tires will have difficulty removing as much water as possible, and in the wrong conditions it can make the problem worse and allow a layer of water to build up under the tires.
Know the Indications of Aquaplaning
You can find out indications of aquaplaning that occurs in your car. When driving on wet roads, You may hear your engine suddenly become louder, feels like you are dropping the clutch into gear when driving at high speed. You will definitely feel the steering becomes 'light'’ and you will feel the back of the car like it is floating when you want to turn from side to side or known as 'fishtailing'.
Those are some explanations about aquaplaning. Drive safely and don't forget to always check your vehicle.
Read Also, Why Are There Patterns On Tire Treads?? Here are some explanations!
