During a hydroplaning skid, what is the recommended corrective action?

• A. Reduce speed, apply brakes firmly, and counter steer
• B. Reduce speed, no brake, and counter steer
• C. Accelerate to normal speed and steer
• D. Stop immediately by pulling the emergency brake

Answer: (B)

Hydroplaning happens when a layer of water between the tires and road greatly reduces traction. The safest corrective action is to ease off the accelerator and avoid braking, allowing the tires to regain contact with the road as water is displaced. Steer smoothly toward the direction you want the vehicle to go (this is the idea behind counter steering) to realign the wheels with the road surface. Braking hard can lock the wheels and worsen the skid, and accelerating or using the emergency brake can lead to a loss of control. So the best approach is to slow down without braking and steer to reestablish traction.