If you drive through a deep puddle, what should you do?

Testing your brakes after driving through a deep puddle is essential for ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road. When a vehicle passes through water, especially if it is deep enough to splash, there is a risk that the brakes can become wet and lose their effectiveness. This can lead to a phenomenon called "brake fade," where the brakes may not respond as quickly or as forcefully as needed. By testing your brakes immediately after exiting the puddle, you can determine if they are functioning properly and regain confidence in your vehicle's stopping ability before proceeding at full speed.

The other options, such as accelerating through the puddle or weaving the vehicle, can create additional hazards. Accelerating can cause hydroplaning, leading to a loss of control, while weaving could distract you from maintaining a straight path and navigating safely. Turning off the engine would not be practical; it would compromise your ability to operate the vehicle effectively. Thus, testing your brakes is the safest and most sensible action to take after encountering a deep puddle.