Now that we’ve swapped snow for rain and winter tires for all-weather tires in Massachusetts, we have to think about new road hazards. One of those hazards is hydroplaning. The risk of hydroplaning increases on wet roads, especially if your tire tread is worn down. At Framingham Tire, we understand the importance of good tires better than most.
Don’t delay getting new tires in Massachusetts this spring. Here’s how your tire tread affects hydroplaning.
How It Happens
Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road due to a layer of water. Water between the tires and the road reduces traction, making it difficult to control your vehicle. One key factor that influences your risk of hydroplaning is the condition of your tire tread. Tire tread plays a crucial role in channeling water away from the tire’s surface and maintaining proper contact with the road.
Why Tread Matters
Tires are designed with grooves and patterns in the tread that help divert water from underneath the tire. As the tire rolls over wet surfaces, these grooves direct the water away, allowing the tire to grip the road more effectively. However, as tires wear down, these grooves become shallower, and the tire’s ability to evacuate water decreases significantly. When the tread depth is reduced, the tire is more likely to encounter a layer of water that it cannot effectively disperse, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning.
Replace Worn Tires This Spring
New tires have deeper tread patterns, which allow them to handle a higher volume of water without losing grip. This means they are less prone to hydroplaning, even in heavy rain. On the other hand, tires with low tread depth, typically below 2/32 of an inch, are much more susceptible to hydroplaning. This is especially true at higher speeds or when roads are wet. Driving with worn tires not only increases the risk of hydroplaning but also compromises overall safety, as it reduces your ability to stop quickly or handle the vehicle in slippery conditions.
Get New Tires in Massachusetts at Framingham Tire
To reduce the risk of hydroplaning, it’s crucial to regularly check your tire tread depth and replace tires before they become too worn. Proper tire maintenance, including ensuring adequate tread depth, can help keep you safe during rainy conditions and improve overall driving performance. If you need new tires, we have the best selection in Massachusetts at Framingham Tire for personal and commercial vehicles.
