Hydroplaning Car Accidents in Phoenix, AZ

Loss of vehicle control can be frightening for any driver and any passenger within a vehicle. Hydroplaning, also known as aquaplaning, is the loss of vehicle control typically due slick roads and happens when water separates tire tread from the pavement.

Tire tread commonly works by pushing water out during rainy conditions or when a vehicle is passing a puddle, when hydroplaning occurs too much water has built up in the tread causing the vehicle to skid on a sheet of water.

In Arizona there were more than 103,000 motor vehicle collisions reported in 2012. The precise number of hydroplaning collisions is unknown, however more than 32,000 collisions were reportedly caused by a driver who was speeding too fast for conditions. Additionally more than 200 accidents were caused by a driver operating with knowingly faulty equipment.

Hydroplaning accidents can be serious as many drivers do not know how to regain control of the vehicle and thus veering into traffic and other fixed-objects. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hydroplaning accident caused by a negligent driver, the victim may be entitled to compensation for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

For a no-cost, no-obligation review of your accident claim, fill out the FREE CASE REVIEW form to your right its completely confidential.

What Causes Hydroplaning?

Although all drivers must pass written and skill tests before they get a chance to legally get behind the wheel, there are some skills that drivers still lack such as how to handle hydroplaning. An experienced driver such as those who cannot drive well in rainy conditions is one of the many causes of hydroplaning accidents.

Some other common causes of hydroplaning include:

  • Speeding
  • Poor Tire Tread
  • Faulty Breaks
  • Defective Vehicle Parts
  • Poor Water Drainage

Along with poor water drainage, some bad roads tend to collect water quicker than others. Drivers who are familiar with the local area may know to avoid driving too quickly on these roads but inexperienced drivers and those not local to the area may not.

Preventing Hydroplaning Accidents

Hydroplaning accidents are preventable, however they still happen when motorists are not properly prepared to handle rainy situations and lose control of their vehicle.

Some ways to prevent hydroplaning accidents include:

  • Slow down and drive carefully, especially on curves.
  • If you need to brake during rainy conditions, do it slowly as braking hard could lead to skidding.
  • Check and maintain your tire pressure adequately.
  • Always replace worn tires.
  • Try to follow the tracks of the vehicle in front of you.
  • If you do hydroplane, slowly ease your foot off the gas and decrease your speed. Try to aim your vehicle away from other motorists and once your speed has slowed brake lightly. Do NOT slam on your brakes when hydroplaning.

During poor weather conditions drivers should also be aware of motorists around them. If you see a vehicle hydroplaning it is best to try to steer your own vehicle away from it, but only do so if it is safe. It is important to remain calm in these situations as that distraction itself could lead to a crash.

Contact our Hydroplaning Accident Lawyers Today

If you or a loved is seeking legal counsel after being injured in a hydroplaning collision caused by a careless driver, our attorneys are here to help. At Phillips Law Group we are dedicated to helping accident injury victims fight for their right to fair and just compensation for property damage, medical bills, and more.

Our knowledgeable Phoenix, Arizona injury attorneys will work hard to build a strong case that will ensure you receive the MAXIMUM amount of compensation you are entitled to. We proudly assist personal injury victims throughout the United States, including the following areas:

  • Arizona
  • California
  • Utah
  • New Mexico

We have more than one office located in each state and will offer home and hospital visits to those who need us to come to them to discuss their claim. Call to learn more about how we may be able to help you.

If you would prefer to contact us online, fill out the FREE CASE REVIEW form at the top right-hand corner of this page its FREE to submit and completely confidential.