Arkansas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Practice Test

What increases the likelihood of hydroplaning?

1. Low tire pressure or worn tread

2. High speeds on a dry road

3. New tires and low speeds

4. High tire pressure

The correct answer is: Low tire pressure or worn tread

Low tire pressure or worn tread significantly increases the likelihood of hydroplaning. When tire pressure is low, the tires cannot maintain proper contact with the road surface, which diminishes their ability to channel water away. Worn tread reduces the tire's overall effectiveness in gripping the road and evacuating water. As water accumulates on the road surface, especially during heavy rain, these compromised tires can lose traction, leading to hydroplaning. High speeds on a dry road, new tires at low speeds, and high tire pressure do not contribute to increased hydroplaning risk. In fact, appropriate tire pressure and good tread are critical for maintaining traction and reducing the risk of hydroplaning, especially under wet conditions. Thus, ensuring tires are in good condition and properly inflated is key to safe driving in rainy weather.