A 4-minute lesson from the Hawaii course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Hawaii's driving weather is mostly rain, with isolated fog on high-elevation roads and occasional gusty winds. Rain cuts visibility and changes the road surface, so the first few drops are the most dangerous moment.
Know the rule
Roads are most slippery when rain first starts, because oil from passing cars hasn't washed away. Reduce speed, use extra caution and allow at least twice the normal following distance.
When heavy rain cuts visibility, slow down and turn on low-beam head lamps. If you can't see clearly, pull onto the shoulder or another clear area and stop until it lets up.
At dawn and dusk, use sun visors and sunglasses, keep glass clean, and turn on low beams so others see you. Watch for unlighted objects and pedestrians.
A sudden downpour hits as you drive a Kona highway at 55 mph. You're in the range where tires can lose all contact. Ease off the gas without braking hard, turn on low beams and double your following distance.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Hydroplaning happens when:
a layer of water causes your tires to lose contact with the road
your brakes overheat
your tires lose all traction on ice
your engine stalls in the rain
Answer: a layer of water causes your tires to lose contact with the road
Hydroplaning occurs when a water layer lifts your tires off the road surface.