When is hydroplaning most likely to happen?
For truck drivers, hydroplaning can be especially dangerous due to the size and weight of a fully loaded rig. While heavy loads help with traction, water on the road can still cause your tires to lose grip – especially in the spring rainy season or during late winter when cold temperatures make tire rubber harder.
Know where to watch for standing water
As a truck driver, being aware of where water collects on the road can help you anticipate and react before hydroplaning becomes a risk.
- Runoff Areas: Be cautious in areas where rainwater flows onto the road from slopes or fields. These unexpected streams can create slick spots, especially on highways and back roads.
- Tire spray from other vehicles: Pay attention to the spray coming off tires – if you see a lot of mist and water being thrown up by other trucks, there’s likely standing water ahead.
- Low-lying areas: Watch for pooling water in dips, underpasses and bridges. These spots often collect water and can cause sudden traction loss if you’re not prepared.
What to do if you hydroplane
Hydroplaning in a semi-truck is very different from losing traction in a four-wheel sedan. With the weight, length and braking system of an 18-wheeler, how you react makes all the difference in regaining control safely.
- Ease off the accelerator: Sudden braking or accelerating can make things worse. Instead, gradually let off the throttle to allow your tires to regain contact with the road.
- Maintain a firm grip: Keep both hands steady on the wheel. Sudden movements can cause a trailer to shift unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a jackknife.
- Focus on where you want to go: Keep your eyes ahead and steer gently in the direction of the road. Avoid overcorrecting, which can cause the truck to skid or sway.
- Avoid sudden braking: If you need to slow down, ease onto the brakes gently once your tires regain traction. Slamming the brakes could lock up your wheels and worsen the slide.
Unlike smaller vehicles, regaining control in a big rig takes patience and steady hands. Staying calm and following these steps can help you safely navigate out of a hydroplaning situation.
How to reduce the risk of hydroplaning
Taking a few precautions can significantly reduce the risk of hydroplaning, like:
- Pre-trip inspections: Check tire tread depth, inflation levels and overall tire condition. Worn or underinflated tires are more prone to losing grip.
- Plan your route: Research weather and road conditions before heading out to avoid areas expecting heavy rain or flooding.
- Know when to stop: If road conditions worsen and water buildup is severe, finding a safe place to pull over until conditions improve may be the best decision.
Final thoughts: Stay in control, stay safe
Wet roads can turn routine hauls into risky situations. Hydroplaning isn’t a situation anyone wants to find themselves in, especially in a heavy articulated vehicle. Managing speed, maintaining proper tire care and knowing when to park can be the difference between a safe trip and a dangerous situation.
The choices you make behind the wheel matter. Stay sharp, stay prepared and most importantly, stay safe. Your next delivery is important – but making it home safely should always be the goal.
Go deeper
Check out this video for more insights on how to stay in control when roads are wet.
