What is the recommended action when approaching water on the roadway?

When approaching water on the roadway, the recommended action is to cover the brake pedal and apply slight pressure. This approach helps maintain control over the vehicle while ensuring that your speed is reduced as you prepare to navigate through the water. Covering the brake pedal means that you are ready to slow down or stop if necessary, allowing for a more cautious and safe passage through potentially hazardous conditions.

Maintaining slight pressure on the brake can also help keep the vehicle stable and prevent it from hydroplaning, which can occur if you lose traction on the wet surface. This technique allows you to react more effectively if the water presents unexpected challenges, such as hidden potholes or deeper sections that could compromise vehicle control.

While stopping entirely before entering water can be a prudent measure in some scenarios, it may not always be possible or safe, particularly in moving traffic. Changing lanes to avoid water can also be risky, as it might lead you into the path of other vehicles. Accelerating quickly through the water is unsafe and can lead to loss of control or damage to your vehicle. Thus, covering the brake while slightly applying pressure embodies a balanced approach to safely navigating through water on the roadway.