Washington State Department of Licensing Knowledge Test

What should you do when the road is wet to avoid hydroplaning?

1. Increase your speed

2. Maintain your current speed

3. Reduce your speed

4. Turn on your high beams

The correct answer is: Reduce your speed

When the road is wet, reducing your speed is essential to avoid hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds between the tires of the vehicle and the surface of the road, which can lead to a loss of traction. By slowing down, you allow your tires more time to displace the water, maintaining better contact with the road surface. Driving at a lower speed decreases the chances of your tires losing grip and helps ensure that you remain in control of the vehicle. Maintaining your current speed or increasing it can worsen the situation by creating a higher risk of hydroplaning as the tires may not be able to slice through the water effectively at greater speeds. Turning on high beams does not address the hydroplaning issue and can actually cause glare on wet surfaces, reducing visibility. Therefore, reducing your speed is the most prudent action to take in wet conditions.