Driving in the rain can be dangerous, especially when water builds up on the road faster than your tires can push it away. This can lead to hydroplaning, a frightening event where your car loses contact with the road and starts sliding uncontrollably. In Pensacola and throughout Florida, wet weather conditions make hydroplaning accidents a real and common threat.
At Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., we help victims of hydroplaning crashes recover compensation for their injuries and losses. Understanding how hydroplaning happens, how to prevent it, and what steps to take afterward can help you stay safe and protect your legal rights.
What Is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning (also called aquaplaning) occurs when a layer of water builds up between a vehicle’s tires and the road surface. When this happens, the tires can no longer grip the road, causing the driver to lose control of steering, braking, and traction. Even a small amount of standing water can trigger hydroplaning if conditions are right.
Several factors contribute to hydroplaning, including:
- Speed: Hydroplaning is most likely to occur at speeds above 35 mph.
- Tire condition: Worn-out or underinflated tires make it harder to channel water away.
- Road conditions: Smooth or oil-covered roads are more slippery during rain.
- Water depth: The more water on the road, the higher the hydroplaning risk.
For a deeper dive into how aquaplaning differs from hydroplaning and the physics behind both, visit our dedicated resource on aquaplaning.
Common Causes of Hydroplaning Accidents
In Florida, hydroplaning accidents often occur due to a mix of weather and driver behavior. Sudden downpours, poor road drainage, and slick highways make it easy for vehicles to lose control. Some common causes include:
- Failing to slow down in wet weather
- Using cruise control during rain
- Driving with worn tires
- Sudden braking or turning on wet surfaces
While hydroplaning may seem like a freak accident, driver negligence can still play a role. If another motorist’s reckless or careless driving caused your crash, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
How to Prevent Hydroplaning
Prevention is always the best defense. You can reduce your risk of hydroplaning by following these simple but effective driving tips:
- Check your tires regularly: Ensure they are properly inflated and have enough tread depth (at least 4/32 of an inch is recommended).
- Slow down in the rain: Reducing your speed gives your tires more time to disperse water.
- Avoid sudden movements: Gentle steering, braking, and acceleration help maintain control.
- Stay out of ruts and puddles: Water tends to pool in these areas, increasing your risk of skidding.
- Turn off cruise control: You need full control of your speed and braking on wet roads.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wet pavement contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic crashes each year in the U.S. Staying cautious and maintaining your vehicle properly are simple ways to avoid becoming part of this statistic.
What to Do If Your Car Starts Hydroplaning
Knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference. If you feel your car starting to hydroplane:
- Stay calm. Do not slam on the brakes or jerk the steering wheel.
- Ease off the accelerator. This allows your tires to slowly regain traction.
- Steer gently. Keep your steering straight until you feel control returning. If you must turn, do so smoothly.
- Once traction returns, gently brake if needed and steer back into your lane.
If an accident occurs, move your vehicle to safety if possible, check for injuries, and call 911. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s wise to have law enforcement file an official report.
Who Is Liable in a Hydroplaning Accident?
Determining fault in a hydroplaning accident can be complex. While weather conditions play a major role, liability may still fall on one or more parties, such as:
- Another driver who was speeding, tailgating, or driving recklessly in the rain
- A municipality or government agency responsible for poor road maintenance or drainage
- A tire manufacturer if a defective tire contributed to the crash
Because Florida is a no-fault state, your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance will cover part of your medical expenses and lost wages. However, if your injuries are severe, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the at-fault driver under Florida car accident laws.
It’s also important to understand your uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Many hydroplaning accidents involve drivers who carry minimal insurance or none at all. This coverage can make a huge difference in getting full compensation after a crash.
Proving Negligence in a Hydroplaning Case
To recover damages, your attorney must show that another party’s negligence contributed to the crash. This typically involves proving:
- The other driver owed you a duty of care
- They breached that duty by driving carelessly or recklessly
- Their actions directly caused the accident and your injuries
Evidence such as skid marks, weather reports, traffic camera footage, and witness statements can help establish fault. A skilled car accident lawyer will investigate all possible factors to ensure your rights are protected.
Types of Compensation Available
If you were injured in a hydroplaning accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future rehabilitation or therapy costs
Each case is unique, but working with an experienced attorney can help you maximize your recovery and avoid mistakes that could reduce your claim’s value. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim after an auto accident is over $20,000—proof that even moderate crashes can lead to significant financial losses.
When to Contact a Pensacola Car Accident Lawyer
After a hydroplaning accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Insurance companies may try to minimize your payout or blame the weather instead of their insured driver. Having a dedicated advocate on your side can make all the difference in your case outcome.
Michael E. Fenimore, P.A. has helped countless Floridians navigate complex insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits. Our firm can investigate the cause of your crash, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We offer personalized attention and handle every case with integrity, compassion, and determination.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hydroplaning accident in Pensacola or anywhere in Florida, don’t wait to get help. Contact Michael E. Fenimore, P.A. today for a free consultation. Let our experienced team help you understand your options and pursue the justice you deserve.