New Mexico Class D Written Test Practice
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Passing target: 70% (21/30)
You drive at 55 mph through heavy rain. The steering suddenly feels light, and the car seems to ride on top of the water. What should you do?
A crosses pooled water on a rain-soaked highway. The fact card states that the steering feels light while traveling at 55 mph.
Correct answer: Ease off the gas and keep the wheel straight until the tires grip the road again
Why
This is hydroplaning: the tires ride up on a layer of water, like water skis. On a wet road most tires grip well up to about 35 mph, but in heavy rain they can lose all contact with the road at about 50 mph, and bald or worn tires lose it at lower speeds. The best defense is to slow down whenever the road is wet.
Verified against New Mexico Driver Manual · Hydroplaning · p. 23, 24
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