Driving in rainy conditions can be risky, primarily when water builds up on the road. When this happens, your tires may lose contact with the surface, causing your vehicle to slide uncontrollably. This is called hydroplaning. It occurs when a thin film of water forms between the tires and the road, reducing traction and making it harder to steer or brake.
Hydroplaning can happen on wet pavement, even in light rain. Worn tires, low tread depth, and improper tire pressure increase the risk. Driving too fast, using cruise control, or sudden movements can also lead to a skid. The deeper the water, the higher the chance of losing control.
If you are injured in a Honolulu crash caused by hydroplaning, call or contact a car accident attorney at Recovery Law Center to learn your legal options.
What Is Hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning, or aquaplaning, is a dangerous driving condition when a layer of water builds up between a vehicle’s tires and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction. This can prevent the vehicle from responding to control inputs such as steering, braking, or accelerating, effectively making it uncontrollable.
Hydroplaning will likely happen during heavy rain or driving through standing water at higher speeds. Wet pavement creates an unpredictable hazard for even the best drivers. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 3,400 people are killed each year when it rains, and more than 357,300 are injured.
What Causes a Car to Hydroplane?
Several factors contribute to hydroplaning. These include:
- Water Depth: Hydroplaning occurs in deeper water because it’s harder for the tires to displace the water and maintain contact with the road surface.
- Speed: Driving at high speeds increases the risk of hydroplaning. As speed increases, the tires have less time to displace the water on the road surface. Typically, hydroplaning can start at speeds as low as 35 miles per hour (about 56 kilometers per hour), but the risk increases significantly with higher speeds.
- Tire Conditions: Even the best tires require regular maintenance. A worn or underinflated tire tread is more sensitive to hydroplaning. New tires with deep treads are better at channeling water away from the tire’s surface, maintaining tire traction.
- Vehicle Weight: Lighter vehicles are more prone to hydroplaning because they have less downward force to help displace water under the tires.
- Road Conditions: Wet roads or standing water are more likely to cause vehicles to hydroplane, and certain types of pavement are also more slippery when wet.
- Driving Behavior: Losing control, such as sudden turns or hard braking, can increase the risk of hydroplaning. Smooth, gradual steering wheel movements are recommended when driving in wet conditions to maintain control.
What Happens If A Car Hits Me While Hydroplaning?
Liability depends on several factors, such as if a car hits you while hydroplaning in Hawaii. Here’s what you need to know:
- Driver Negligence: If the driver who hit you was speeding, using cruise control, or had worn tires, they may be responsible.
- Road Conditions: If poor drainage or deep water caused the accident, local authorities might share some responsibility.
- Your Role: The fault could be shared if you also lost control due to hydroplaning.
Proving Liability in Hydroplaning
To build a strong case, you will need:
- Accident Reports: Police reports provide official documentation of the crash.
- Witness Statements: Bystanders or other drivers may support your claim.
- Photos and Videos: Images of the accident scene, tire marks, or road conditions can serve as evidence.
- Vehicle Inspection Reports: A mechanic can determine if a mechanical failure contributed to the crash.
Compensation in Hawaii: No-Fault Insurance System
Hawaii operates under a no-fault auto insurance system, which affects how compensation is pursued following an accident, including those involving hydroplaning:
First Party Coverage
Under the no-fault system, if you’re injured in a collision, regardless of who is at fault, you’ll initially seek compensation through your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This coverage is part of your auto insurance policy and is designed to cover medical expenses, lost earnings, and other losses up to your policy’s limits.
Limitations and Thresholds
Hawaii’s no-fault law has specific thresholds that, if exceeded, may allow you to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. This typically involves serious injuries that meet specific medical or cost criteria.
Negligence and Liability
Even in a no-fault state, negligence still plays a crucial role. If the driver who hydroplaned was found negligent and your injuries surpass the no-fault threshold, you could file a lawsuit against the driver for additional compensation.
Even if you are partially at fault for a car accident in Hawaii, you can still collect compensation if you are not more at fault than the other party.
Legal Options for Victims of Hydroplaning
If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to pursue:
- An Insurance Claim: File a claim with the at-fault party’s insurer for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage.
- A Personal Injury Lawsuit: If insurance does not fully cover your losses, you may sue for damages. This includes pain and suffering, medical costs, and ongoing care.
- A Product Liability Claim: If a defective part caused the accident, you can seek compensation from the manufacturer.
- A Claim Against the Government: If road conditions contributed to the crash, you may have a case against the agency responsible for maintaining safe roads.
Tips to Avoid Hydroplaning
Hawaii’s rainy season creates more chances for water to collect on roadways, setting the stage for hydroplaning. Here are some suggestions to help you avoid this dangerous situation:
- Ensure your tires are properly inflated and not overly worn.
- Slow down when roads are wet. You can hydroplane in less than an inch of water.
- Stay away from puddles and standing water.
- Avoid driving in outer lanes where water accumulates.
- Drive in the tire tracks left by cars in front of you.
- Drive in a lower gear, and don’t use cruise control.
- Avoid applying brakes hard.
- Refrain from making sharp or quick turns.
Contact Recovery Law Center in Honolulu Today!
If you are in an unfortunate situation resulting from hydroplaning in Hawaii, knowing you have options is important. Recover Law Center in Honolulu assists those involved in car accidents, offering legal advice and support. Our experience can guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the compensation and support you deserve.
Schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney at Recover Law Center to understand your rights and the steps you can take toward recovery.
