Aquaplaning – not Skidding. Beware today of Aquaplaning. Particularly if you go from just a wet road into a section of standing or surface water. Skidding is caused by a loss of friction in the tyres. Aquaplaning is where a wedge of water builds up just ahead of your tyre and contains too much water for your tyre tread to dissipate. This lifts the wheel enough to remove any contact you may have had with the road, and therefore gives you no steering or braking effectiveness. When approaching areas of surface water, slow down as you enter it. Give your tyres a chance, and relax. Don’t tense up. Take care.