If your car starts to hydroplane, what should you do?

When your car begins to hydroplane, which occurs when a layer of water builds between the tires and the road surface, the correct response is to ease off the accelerator and steer straight. This reaction helps reduce speed gradually, allowing the tires to regain contact with the road rather than forcing them into a skidding situation. Steering straight rather than turning will help maintain control of the vehicle as it resists the urge to slide.

In contrast, jerking the wheel sharply or steering to the left can worsen the situation by causing the car to lose more stability, leading to skidding or even spinning out. Similarly, applying the brakes hard is not advisable; it can lock the wheels and increase the chances of losing control. Attempting to speed up conflicts with the goal of regaining traction, putting the vehicle at greater risk of losing control on the wet surface. Properly easing off the accelerator and steering straight maximizes chances of regaining traction and control in these hazardous conditions.