What initial action should be taken if your vehicle starts to hydroplane?

When a vehicle starts to hydroplane, the primary initial action should be to ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden movements. Hydroplaning occurs when the tires lose contact with the road surface due to water buildup, causing the vehicle to slide uncontrollably. By gently reducing speed, the vehicle can begin to regain contact with the road surface, allowing the tires to function effectively and restoring traction.

Making abrupt movements, such as sharply turning the steering wheel or braking hard, can exacerbate the situation and lead to a loss of control, potentially causing the vehicle to skid or flip. Similarly, attempting to accelerate in this scenario can lead to further hydroplaning, as speed can magnify the situation. The key to managing hydroplaning is to stay calm, keep a light grip on the steering wheel, and gradually reduce speed to regain control.