To avoid hydroplaning, what is the maximum speed you should not exceed on wet pavement?

To avoid hydroplaning, it's essential to understand how water on the roadway interacts with vehicle tires. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water on the road prevents the tires from making direct contact with the surface, leading to a loss of traction and control over the vehicle. The likelihood of hydroplaning increases with higher speeds, especially on wet pavement.

The maximum speed at which you should operate to minimize the risk of hydroplaning is generally considered to be around 35 mph on wet pavement. At this speed, the tires can still maintain adequate contact with the road surface, allowing for better control and braking. Beyond this threshold, the chances of the tires losing their grip on the road increases significantly.

With this understanding, it's crucial for drivers to adjust their speed based on road conditions, particularly when rain or flooding is present. Maintaining a safe speed under these conditions helps ensure not only the driver's safety but also that of other road users.