What is the primary risk of hydroplaning associated with underinflated tires?

The primary risk of hydroplaning associated with underinflated tires is the lack of traction when wet. When tires are adequately inflated, they maintain optimal contact with the road surface, allowing for better water dispersion and grip. However, underinflated tires have a larger contact patch, which can lead to the tires losing their ability to channel water away effectively. This results in a scenario where the tire rides on a layer of water instead of maintaining contact with the road, leading to hydroplaning.

When hydroplaning occurs, the vehicle can lose steering control, making it difficult for the driver to maintain direction and safely navigate turns or sudden movements. This significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially in wet conditions. Therefore, ensuring proper tire pressure is crucial for maintaining traction, especially during rainy weather, to prevent hydroplaning and enhance overall vehicle safety.