What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road surface as a result of water accumulation. This phenomenon typically happens when there is standing water on the road, causing a layer of water to form between the tire and the pavement. As the vehicle moves, it can glide on this water layer instead of maintaining the necessary friction and grip with the road, leading to a loss of control.

Understanding hydroplaning is crucial for safe driving, especially during rainy conditions. Drivers need to be aware of the risks and take preventative measures, such as reducing speed and avoiding sudden movements, to minimize the likelihood of hydroplaning.

The other options refer to different driving concepts: maintaining traction in wet conditions, driving in severe weather, or navigating through heavy rain, none of which specifically define hydroplaning. Each of these is a safe driving strategy or condition, but they do not describe the loss of tire contact with the road that characterizes hydroplaning.