As few as how many inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle?

• A. 4 inches
• B. 6 inches
• C. 8 inches
• D. 12 inches

Answer: (B)

Water on the road dramatically reduces traction and can cause hydroplaning, where the tire rides on a film of water instead of the road. When that happens, steering and braking control are compromised. About six inches of water is enough to reach the tires of many passenger cars and overwhelm their ability to push water away, leading to a loss of control. Deeper water increases the risk further, and shallower depths are less likely to cause a full loss of control for some vehicles. So six inches is the depth most often associated with losing control. If you encounter standing water, turn around and avoid driving through it; if you must, go very slowly and be prepared for reduced braking and steering effectiveness.