Cruise control, while a valuable piece of technology and a great way to avoid exceeding the speed limit, can be risky while driving in bad weather. According to AAA, using cruise control in the rain or in other slippery conditions can
- affect the system's ability to maintain a constant vehicle speed;
- cause the vehicle to hydroplane when it encounters standing water if it’s set at too fast a speed; or
- result in a skid on very low-traction surfaces such as ice and snow.
New York motorists should consider using cruise control only in appropriate weather to lower their chances of hydroplaning or losing control.
Why Do Vehicles Hydroplane?
Heavy rain can cause a vehicle to hydroplane. According to the National Safety Commission, when water stands on the road, it can become deep enough that the tires can’t squeeze the water through the tread fast enough, causing the tire to rise onto the water, resulting in "hydroplaning."
Other than water depth, drivers can hydroplane depending on the speed. According to some sources, hydroplaning can occur at as low as 35 mph and becomes more dangerous as speed increases. Road conditions also can increase the chances of hydroplaning.
How does hydroplaning – sometimes called aquaplaning -- affect a driver’s ability to control a car? The vehicle can fishtail or veer sideways, especially if only one set of tires is affected rather than both. Revolutions per minute can increase as the rubber leaves the road.
Injured in an Accident? Call William Mattar P.C.
Drivers should be alert and ready in bad weather conditions. If you were injured in a car accident with a vehicle that had cruise control enabled, you may be looking for an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you receive maximum compensation. The experienced car accident attorneys at William Mattar, P.C. can review your case and help determine your options moving forward. You can contact us 24/7 by submitting a contact form online, or by calling (844) 444 - 4444.