Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestSafe Driving PracticesHard
A driver is operating a vehicle in heavy rain and notices that their tires are losing contact with the road surface, causing the vehicle to skid. What is this phenomenon called, and what is the immediate safe response?
- ASkidding; brake hard and turn the steering wheel sharply in the opposite direction of the skid.
- BHydroplaning; ease off the accelerator, do not brake, and steer gently in the direction of the skid.
- CFishtailing; accelerate to regain traction and then correct the steering.
- DDrifting; apply the emergency brake lightly to slow down and regain control.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Hydroplaning; ease off the accelerator, do not brake, and steer gently in the direction of the skid.
The phenomenon described is hydroplaning, where a layer of water builds between the tires and the road surface, causing a loss of traction. The safest response is to ease off the accelerator, avoid braking, and steer gently in the direction the vehicle is skidding to regain control without overcorrecting.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Braking hard and sharp turns will worsen a skid or hydroplane.
- C. Accelerating will further reduce traction and worsen the situation.
- D. Applying the emergency brake at speed is highly dangerous and can cause a spin.
Hydroplaning Response
The emergency procedure for regaining control when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road due to water.
- Loss of traction due to water layer.
- Avoid sudden actions (braking, sharp turns).
- Gentle steering and speed reduction are key.
Memory trick: Water on road, ease the load, steer where you're towed.