Pennsylvania drivers should know how they can reduce the risk of hydroplaning during the rainy season. Hydroplaning arises when a vehicle’s tires encounter more rain on the road than they can handle; the water is pushed underneath and forms a thin layer between the tires and the road, causing the vehicle to float. The thicker the layer, the more likely it is for the vehicle to slide or skid out of control.

Cautious driving can usually prevent hydroplaning. This means slowing down and avoiding large puddles. Drivers should be especially careful during the initial 10 minutes of rainfall as that is the time when the water combines with the oily substances on the road to create a slippery surface. After that, the water will normally wash away much, but not all, of the residue.

Sometimes, hydroplaning is unavoidable, so drivers are advised to keep the following tips in mind. Their first reaction may be to apply the brakes, but they should refrain from doing so; otherwise, their car will lose even more control. Drivers should turn into the slide rather than in the opposite direction that the rear is heading, and they should do so without overcorrecting. Once the car realigns itself with the road, drivers can pull over for a breather.

In those instances when hydroplaning leads to a car crash, the police will determine the degree of fault on all sides. A victim can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party, but succeeding is another matter. This is where legal representation comes in. A lawyer could have third parties build up the case with the necessary proof before proceeding to the negotiation table. If the auto insurance company refuses to pay out, the plaintiff could litigate.