What is the primary action you should take when your bus begins to hydroplane?

When a bus begins to hydroplane, the primary action you should take is to steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the road, reducing traction and making it difficult to control the vehicle. By steering in the direction of the front wheels, you help the bus regain alignment and improve stability, which is essential during such a loss of traction. This action promotes smoother handling of the bus, allowing it to recover more effectively as the tires reconnect with the road surface.

Choosing to increase speed, gently apply brakes, or speed up can exacerbate the situation. Increasing speed or accelerating can worsen hydroplaning, as it leads to more water accumulation under the tires. Similarly, applying the brakes can cause the wheels to lock up, resulting in a loss of control. Therefore, the best practice is to calmly steer the vehicle to regain control while avoiding abrupt movements.