Per Mertesacker is an Arsenal centre-back who dodged a serious injury, and potentially death, after he lost control of his vehicle and aquaplaned. Arsenal Football club is based in Halloway, London, where Per was driving home from his practice on the M1 when the car accident occurred. Thankfully, nobody else was involved in the crash, but in many cases the driver does not always end up as lucky, and as unscathed, as Per.
What is Aquaplaning?
Aquaplaning, or hydroplaning, happens when a vehicle is traveling too fast on a slippery, watery road surface. It can be an extremely frightening experience, because the wheels end up losing traction on the road and lift off of the surface, riding on the water above the road. When a car aquaplanes, the driver has no control of the vehicle, and the car will slide and skate along until something stops it.
In Ontario, we have four seasons that come with four different types of weather, including rain. Therefore, we need to take these tips into account as Ontario drivers and be mindful of the rainy roads. Driving is a privilege not a right and although your car loses control when it aquaplanes, it is your responsibility to slow down in less than desirable conditions. If a car aquaplanes into another vehicle, the driver of this car will need to hire car accident lawyers in Ontario for the damages sustained.
Here are four main factors that contribute to aquaplaning, so you can avoid this alarming experience:
Speed
When the weather is rainy, slow down! Once you increase your speed on a slippery surface, your tires will lose traction. By slowing down in the rain, you are decreasing your chances of aquaplaning and will have the control you need over your vehicle.
Tires
Your tires need to be checked regularly because damaged tires are not able to displace the water on the road. Tires also need to be kept inflated so that they have maximum traction on the roads.
Road Conditions
When road conditions are extremely bad and heavy rain persists, pulling over is the safest option. If you choose to continue driving, slow down as sluggishly and as sloth-like as you can. Be on the lookout for signs that indicate dangerous road conditions, and abide by the rules of the road. These tips will keep you, and other drivers, safe in the rain.
What to Do When Aquaplaning
- If you have cruise control on turn it off as soon as you feel the back end of your car fishtailing or your steering wheel begins to feel lighter.
- Staying calm will help you to make the right decisions in this scenario.
- Don’t slam on the breaks, as your car will skid out of control.
- Avoid any sudden or jerking movements.
- Let the car aquaplane and remove your foot from the accelerator.
- When you feel the tires grip the road again you can slowly steer in the direction you would like to travel, while pumping on the breaks or using ABS.
Hiring Car Accident Lawyers in Ontario
If another driver was not following these tips and aquaplanes into your car, look into hiring car accident lawyers in Ontario that will help you with your case. Book a consultation with Sokoloff today!
Sources:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2566875-arsenals-per-mertesacker-reportedly-unhurt-after-car-accident
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arsenal_F.C.
http://www.roaddriver.co.uk/safety-tips/what-to-do-if-your-car-aquaplanes/