Hydroplaning Vehicle Causes Interstate Crash in Elk Grove

Injury Reported in Northbound I-5 Caused by Hydroplaning Vehicle

A hydroplaning vehicle caused a collision along Interstate 5 in Elk Grove on October 25, which sent the driver to the hospital. The accident happened around 2:21 p.m. on northbound I-5 at the Sutterville Road off-ramp, as reported by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). When the Honda Civic hydroplaned, it ended up in the center divider facing south and blocking traffic in the number one lane after crashing with a Toyota sedan. 

Driver Taken to Hospital Following Two-Vehicle Interstate Accident

The driver of the vehicle was injured in the collision and transported to Kaiser South Sacramento Medical Center by emergency responders with the fire department. The Toyota sedan that was struck ended up also facing the wrong way. The CHP is conducting an investigation to determine fault and how the collision occurred.

Factors That Cause Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning occurs when a motorist is driving on a wet surface, and the vehicle’s tires lose traction, so it starts to slide out of control. When tires encounter water on a street or other roadway, they scatter it normally. When the tires encounter too much water, it gets pushed underneath the tire, causing it to lose traction. However, hydroplaning can occur with a small amount of water too. When there is oil on the road, the first 10 minutes of rainfall can initiate hydroplaning. Other factors that can result in hydroplaning are:

  • The driver’s speed can increase the risk: The faster the speed on a wet surface, the more the traction is reduced, which can lead to a hydroplaning vehicle.
  • Depth of the water: Although just a thin surface of the water on the roadway can lead to hydroplaning, the deeper the water, the higher the risk.
  • Depth of the tread on the tires: Tires that are worn down will not provide good traction and are more likely to cause hydroplaning.

How to Keep Your Car From Hydroplaning

When roads are wet and the weather is bad, it’s always a better idea to stay home but not everyone can do that. However, there are ways to lower the risk of a hydroplaning vehicle. These include.

  • Make sure the tires on your vehicle are correctly inflated to the manufacturer’s suggestions. Underinflated tires are a common cause of a hydroplaning vehicle.
  • Replace the tires when needed and have them rotated to ensure even wear.
  • Don’t drive in outer lanes when water is accumulating on the streets or roadway. 
  • If the road is wet, slow down. The faster the speed, the more likely it is to find yourself in a hydroplaning vehicle.
  • Don’t use your cruise control when the pavement is wet or water is rising. The driver needs to make small adjustments to speed and possible slight braking maneuvers to stay safe.
  • Avoid standing water because it is difficult to judge the depth, and potholes caused by the rain can make it worse.
  • Driving through the tire tracks left by the motorist in front of you is safest if you have to take that route.
  • Don’t make sharp turns or movements because it can lead to a hydroplaning vehicle.

Accidents Caused by a Hydroplaning Vehicle Are Often the Result of Negligence

Weather conditions often lead to accidents. While some factors are out of the control of the driver, many are caused by negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or other causes. When a negligent driver causes a collision that results in injuries to another person, that party may be able to place a claim for compensation. Personal injury damages that can be recovered include all medical expenses associated with the accident, wages lost from the inability to work, and for the injured party’s pain and suffering.

Elk Grove Auto Accident Lawyer

My name is Ed Smith, and I’m an Elk Grove auto accident lawyer. If a negligent driver caused your accident injury, you may want to find out whether you can file a claim for compensation. Call us at (916) 694-0002 or (800) 404-5400 for our free and friendly advice. We can also be contacted by sending us a message online.

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