Motorists are being warned about the dangers of aquaplaning, as experts share tips on how to stay safe on the roads during stormy weather.
Rainfall in the UK is on the rise, with winter 2023-24 the wettest on record,* making it vital that drivers know how to react in these challenging situations.
Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk urge drivers to check their tyre tread depth and significantly reduce their speed when it’s raining to help keep control during unexpected aquaplaning.
Also known as hydroplaning, aquaplaning happens when a layer of water builds up between a vehicle’s tyres and the road surface, causing the tyres to lose grip.
This can lead to a complete loss of steering and braking control, leaving drivers unable to manoeuvre safely until the tyres regain contact with the road.
Even a small amount of water can cause aquaplaning if tyres are worn or under-inflated. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, so it’s important for motorists to regularly check their tyres to ensure they meet or exceed this limit.
Drivers are advised to slow down when conditions are wet, as aquaplaning is far more likely to occur at speeds above 35 mph.**
It’s also important to avoid harsh acceleration, braking or sudden steering movements in rainy weather.
When the car is aquaplaning, drivers might notice the engine suddenly becoming louder, feel as though they’ve dropped the clutch down a gear, causing the revs to increase, experience lighter or unresponsive steering, or feel the back end of the car drifting from side to side, also known as ‘fishtailing’.***
In that situation, it’s crucial not to slam the brakes or turn the wheel sharply. Instead, drivers need to gently ease off the accelerator and keep the steering straight until the tyres regain contact with the road.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “As the weather across the UK gets wetter and stormier, motorists need to be on alert for dangerous driving conditions.
“Many drivers underestimate how easily aquaplaning can happen. Even a thin layer of water can be enough if tyres are worn or speeds are too high.
“It can be a frightening experience when you suddenly lose control of the car, and can result in serious accidents, so knowing how to prevent and manage aquaplaning is crucial at this time of year.
“Regularly checking tyres, slowing down, keeping an eye out for puddles and avoiding harsh manouvers in wet conditions, can all help improve safety while driving in the rain.
“Being aware of the first signs of aquaplaning is also important so that drivers can react calmly and safely. If the steering suddenly feels light or the car starts to drift, don’t panic.
“Staying composed, easing off the accelerator, keeping the wheel straight and letting the tyres regain their grip naturally is the best that you can do in this situation. Being prepared and aware of what’s happening is half the battle.”
Quotezone.co.uk’s top tips on avoiding aquaplaning:
1. Reduce speed
Your tyres will have less chance of gripping the road if you’re travelling at a higher speed. There’s no magic “safe speed,” but experts say that cars travelling under 35 mph in an inch or two of water are much more likely to stay in control.
2. Check your tyre tread depth
The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but don’t wait until you’re right on the limit. More tread means better grip, especially on wet roads. If your tyres are starting to look a little smooth, it’s time to get them checked or replaced,**** driving with unroadworthy tyres can lead to fines, penalty points and could even invalidate your car insurance.
3. Keep tyres properly inflated
Under-inflated tyres can’t clear water as effectively, increasing the risk of aquaplaning. Check tyre pressures regularly, especially before long journeys. If you’re not sure what your tyre pressure should be, check your car manual or reference sticker on the inside of the doorframe.
4. Keep an eye out for puddles
Those big puddles might look harmless, but hitting one too fast can make your car lose contact with the road in an instant. Try to avoid waterlogged roads or drive around puddles safely – if you have to go through, reduce speed and proceed with caution. Turning your headlights on is recommended on rainy days to increase visibility, so other drivers can see you better and you have a better chance of spotting excess surface water.
5. Follow the track
If there’s a car ahead, their tyres will already have cleared some of the water from the road, leaving tracks behind. Driving in those tracks, while keeping a safe distance, could help your tyres maintain better grip.
6. Drive smoothly
Gentle steering, braking and accelerating are key when it’s wet. Take extra care on bends and avoid using cruise control, as it can stop you from reacting quickly if you start to aquaplane.
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