At what speed does hydroplaning become a risk even with good tire treads on water as shallow as 0.08 inches?

Hydroplaning becomes a risk when a vehicle's speed exceeds a certain threshold during wet conditions. When water is present on the road, even as shallow as 0.08 inches, the tires can no longer displace the water quickly enough, causing the vehicle to lose contact with the road. At around 80 mph, the rate at which a vehicle travels increases the chances of hydroplaning significantly, as the tires struggle to maintain adequate traction.

This threshold is an important safety consideration, highlighting the critical relationship between speed and water depth on roads. Drivers should be aware that maintaining a manageable speed during inclement weather can significantly reduce the chances of losing control due to hydroplaning. When speed exceeds this critical point, even well-treaded tires may not be able to effectively channel the water away, increasing the risk of skidding or losing control.