What is a good indication that hydroplaning can occur while driving in steady rain?

A good indication that hydroplaning can occur while driving in steady rain is when the vehicle in front of you creates water splashes. This phenomenon typically occurs when the tires of the vehicle are displacing water on the road surface, indicating that there is enough water accumulation for hydroplaning to be a risk. When a vehicle's tires are unable to maintain contact with the road due to a layer of water, the risk of losing traction increases, making it essential for drivers to be vigilant in such conditions.

Other factors, such as heavy cloud cover or the presence of puddles, may suggest that it is raining, but they do not directly indicate that hydroplaning is imminent. Likewise, while having windshield wipers on indicates that it is raining, it does not necessarily demonstrate the water condition of the roadway. Watching for water splashes from the vehicle ahead is a direct observation that alerts the driver to the potential danger of losing control due to hydroplaning.