Hydroplaning is caused by a combination of which factors?

• A. Standing water
• B. Standing water and wind
• C. Standing water, speed, and tire conditions
• D. Speed alone

Answer: (C)

Hydroplaning happens when a layer of water builds between the tire and the road, causing the tire to ride on top of the water rather than gripping the surface. This loss of traction is most likely when there is standing water on the roadway, you’re traveling at higher speeds, and the tires aren’t in good condition (for example, worn tread or improper inflation) because they can’t effectively push water out from under the tire.

Standing water alone isn’t always enough to cause hydroplaning if you’re going slowly or have good tires. Wind isn’t the main factor in the lift-off from the road, though it can affect spray. Speed alone doesn’t cause hydroplaning without water, and without water, high speed on a wet road still maintains some traction. The combination of water, speed, and tire condition creates the highest risk, so the best answer reflects all three factors.