Question 4114
Can the layer of water that forms on the roadway when it rains affect safety?
- Yes; the brakes can overheat when they get wet.
- Yes; the tires can lose traction and hydroplaning can occur.
- No; the water cools the tires and the vehicle brakes better.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Yes; the tires can lose traction and hydroplaning can occur.
If there is more water on the roadway than the tread can channel away, a layer forms between the tire and the asphalt. That is hydroplaning. The tire loses grip, the steering stops responding, and if you brake, the wheels can lock. The car brakes less effectively on wet surfaces, and wet brakes lose effectiveness rather than overheat.