What is the hazard called when your tires ride on a film of water and lose contact with the road?

The correct term for the hazard when your tires ride on a film of water and lose contact with the road is hydroplaning. This phenomenon occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the road surface, preventing the tires from making effective contact with the pavement. As a result, the vehicle can lose traction and control, leading to steering difficulties and potential accidents.

Hydroplaning is most likely to happen on wet roads, especially during heavy rain, when the water on the road exceeds the tires' ability to channel it away. Several factors can contribute to hydroplaning, including speed, tire tread depth, and water depth. Understanding this hazard is essential for safe driving in wet conditions, as it emphasizes the importance of reducing speed and maintaining tires in good condition to avoid losing traction.