Question

chicago driver license quiz 5/12
60
if your vehicle begins to hydroplane, what should you do?
a: brake hard immediately
b: steer sharply toward the shoulder
c: ease off the gas and steer straight until control returns
d: accelerate to push through the water

Explanation:

Identify the driving hazard

The question asks for the correct action to take when a vehicle begins to hydroplane. Hydroplaning occurs when water builds up between the tires and the road surface, causing a loss of traction.

Evaluate the options based on safety rules

Under standard Traffic Rules and Illinois Rules of the Road:

• A: Brake hard immediately: Braking hard can cause the wheels to lock up and lead to a complete loss of control or a skid.
• B: Steer sharply toward the shoulder: Sharp steering inputs while tires lack traction can cause a violent spin once traction is regained.
• C: Ease off the gas and steer straight until control returns: This is the recommended procedure. Releasing the accelerator allows the vehicle to slow down naturally, helping the tires re-establish contact with the road without sudden forces.
• D: Accelerate to push through the water: Acceleration can spin the wheels and worsen the hydroplaning effect.

Select the correct response

Option C is the safest and legally recommended recovery technique for hydroplaning.

Answer:

• (A) Brake hard immediately
• (B) Steer sharply toward the shoulder
• (C) Ease off the gas and steer straight until control returns (Correct answer)
• (D) Accelerate to push through the water