Bald Tires Could Be a Death Trap in Florida's Wet Roads - Aquaplaning Explained
- Garrett Wattles
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
When Florida’s skies open up, they don’t hold back. Orlando drivers know how quickly a sunny afternoon can turn into a torrential downpour, but many don’t realize their biggest risk on the road isn’t visibility or speed... it’s worn-out tires.
At Ron Jon’s Automotive, we’re seeing more and more vehicles coming into the shop with dangerously bald treads. With hurricane season now in full swing, aquaplaning (also known as hydroplaning) is a serious threat.
What Is Aquaplaning—and Why Does It Happen?
Aquaplaning happens when your tires lose traction and begin gliding across the surface of standing water, rather than gripping the road. Even for experienced drivers, this can lead to loss of steering, braking failure, and sudden skidding. It’s not about reckless speeding. Even at 35–45 mph, a shallow tread depth is all it takes for your car to float uncontrollably across the asphalt.
Warning Signs Your Tires Are No Longer Safe
You don’t need to wait for a rainy day to know your tires are overdue. In fact, your car may already be showing signs of poor traction:
Vibration at highway speeds
Longer stopping distances than usual
A slick or glassy look on the tire surface
Uneven wear or cracking along the sidewalls
If you're feeling even slightly unsure about your grip on the road, it's time to get a professional inspection.
The Orlando Rain Problem: Why It’s Worse Than You Think
Central Florida’s road conditions are particularly risky during storm season. Warm weather combined with sudden showers creates rapid surface flooding, especially on older roads or intersections without proper drainage. Add in rush-hour traffic, distracted drivers, and high-speed zones like I-4 or 408—and bald tires become a recipe for collisions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirms that tire-related crashes are disproportionately higher during wet weather, with under-inflated and worn tires leading the list of contributing factors.
What Ron Jon’s Recommends Right Now
As your neighborhood Orlando mechanic, we don’t just fix cars, we help prevent accidents. At Ron Jon’s Automotive, our priority is your safety. That’s why we recommend:
Free tire inspections: We'll check your tread depth, tire pressure, and alignment.
Affordable rotations and replacements: Get the most out of your current set or upgrade to storm-rated tires.
Same-day service: Because when it’s raining, you don’t have time to wait.
And yes, we’ll always be upfront with what you do or don’t need. Our reputation for honesty is reflected in hundreds of 5-star Google reviews.
Drive Safe This Storm Season—Before It's Too Late
You can’t control the rain, but you can control what’s between your car and the road. If you’re not 100% confident in your tires, now is the time to act—before the next storm catches you by surprise.