When to Stop Cruising
Do you have good driving habits?
You might think using cruise control in the rain to keep a steady speed is safe.
This is a myth! Using cruise control in any slippery condition can cause your vehicle to hydroplane and spin or skid.
There are many reasons for hydroplaning; poorly designed roads and drainage systems, inferior constructed or paved roads, improperly or under-maintained roads. That covers most of Michigan’s roads.
Cruise control in poor conditions can increase your chance of hydroplaning.
HYDROPLANE
verb – North American
-
(of a vehicle) slide uncontrollably on the wet surface of a road. Drag caused by large amounts of water being displaced up and under the vehicle.“a motorist whose car hydroplaned and crashed into a tree”
If you find yourself hydroplaning while driving, here’s what to do:
- Lift your foot off the gas pedal
- Do NOT apply heavy brake pressure – tap your brakes when you feel your tires regain contact with the road surface
- Grip the wheel firmly
- Keep the steering wheel straight – do not try to maneuver the car while you are hydroplaning
Estimates indicate that as many as one out of every four traffic accident deaths and 445,000 injuries each year are the result of crashes in some type of inclement weather.
Remember to drive safe! Not currently an MBWCF member – click here to learn more about how to join!