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Difficulty: HardSkid Recovery and Hydroplaning Control

If a vehicle begins to hydroplane while driving with cruise control engaged, tapping the brake pedal is recommended as the safest method to disengage the cruise control system.

Answer: Answer

Answer

The statement is False. Tapping the brake pedal while hydroplaning can lock the wheels and trigger a severe loss of vehicle control.
The statement is false because pressing or tapping the brake pedal while a vehicle is hydroplaning introduces abrupt braking force to tires already lacking traction. This action can instantly lock the wheels, causing a complete loss of steering control. The safe approach is to disengage cruise control manually using the switch on the steering column/wheel or by smoothly releasing the accelerator.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze vehicle dynamics during hydroplaning
Tires float on a layer of standing water, separating the tread from the pavement and drastically reducing friction.
Understanding available tire traction is critical when evaluating driver control inputs.
2
Evaluate the risk of foot brake application while hydroplaning
Applying any braking force—even a light tap—can immediately lock un-gripped wheels or induce an unexpected yaw moment.
Mechanical braking forces applied to tires without ground traction induce sudden skidding.
3
Identify the safe procedure to deactivate cruise control during traction loss
Deactivate the system using the manual control button/switch or gently reduce accelerator pressure.
This allows the drive wheels to decelerate smoothly without applying harsh braking friction.

Key Concept

Disengaging Cruise Control During Hydroplaning
Estimated Time:1m 15s
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Topics

Skid Recovery and Hydroplaning Control

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