HYDROPLANING ACCIDENTS
Millions In Compensation Recovered For Injury Victims
Hydroplaning (also known as “aquaplaning”) is a common occurrence when the roads are slick due to heavy rain or snow, but there are many factors that could lead to a hydroplaning accident. Hydroplaning occurs when a tire moves over a slick road surface but fails to hold traction. When too much water gets into the tire tread, the water cannot be pushed away quickly enough. This causes the vehicle to skid on the layer of water sitting between the road surface and the tires. The first few minutes of a rain shower are especially dangerous, as the water mixes with oil on the road’s surface and causes slippery conditions. Have you been hit by a driver who lost control of their vehicle due to hydroplaning? If so, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit to pursue financial compensation for any injuries you sustained in the crash.
For a free review of your accident claim, fill out our online contact form or call (217) 516-3451.
Causes Of Hydroplaning Accidents
It may seem that a hydroplaning collision can occur simply due to Mother Nature, but other factors can contribute to this dangerous situation:
- Speed: If a motorist is driving at a high speed, they are more likely to lose control of their vehicle during slick road conditions, especially during turns.
- Water Drainage: Poor water drainage may cause large puddles of water to accumulate, and it can be difficult for a driver to decipher just how deep the puddle is.
- Tires: Tire tread is what assists in keeping a car grounded. Poor tire tread or tire pressure can quickly lead to hydroplaning.
A motorist can prevent a hydroplaning accident by slowing down during rainy conditions, watching for puddles, and keeping up with proper vehicle maintenance.
How To Handle Hydroplaning
Another way a person can prevent a hydroplaning accident from occurring is to learn how to handle the situation, should it ever occur. Drivers should consider taking the following steps to try to regain control of their vehicle:
- Do not slam on the brakes or jerk the wheel.
- Try to remain calm and gently release the gas pedal.
- While slowing down, gently steer the vehicle safely out of harm’s way and away from other cars.
- Once the vehicle has slowed down sufficiently, slowly press the brakes to come to a complete halt.
As losing control of a car can be a scary situation, it may be best for the driver to pull off to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot to regain their composure and check for any vehicle damage.
Hydroplaning Injuries
If a vehicle hydroplanes, a driver or passenger may sustain injuries if they crash into another vehicle or a fixed object. Some common types of hydroplaning accident injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Concussion
- Seatbelt injuries
- Back injuries
Depending on the severity of the collision, a person could suffer from catastrophic injuries if the vehicle rolls over onto its side or crashes head-on with another car.
Helping Victims Of Hydroplaning Collisions In Central & Southern Illinois
Being involved in any type of car accident can be devastating, especially when it was caused by a reckless driver. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a hydroplaning accident due to no fault of your own, the victim may be entitled to compensation. Spiros Law, P.C. may be able to help you fight for the justice you deserve by providing comprehensive legal counsel and assisting you throughout the entire litigation process. We are proud to represent injury victims throughout Central and Southern Illinois. We have fought for the injured since 1996 and are committed to pursuing the best result for every client.
