Which of the following increases the risk of hydroplaning?

The answer about heavy rain and worn tires as a factor that increases the risk of hydroplaning is accurate for several reasons. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water on the road surface prevents direct contact between the tires and the asphalt. When it rains heavily, the amount of water on the road increases significantly, and if tires are worn, they lose their ability to channel water away effectively. Worn tires have less tread depth, which reduces their grip on wet surfaces and hinders their ability to disperse water. As a result, a vehicle is more likely to skid on the water's surface instead of maintaining contact with the road, leading to hydroplaning.

In contrast, deep treads on tires can improve water displacement and enhance grip, thereby reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Properly inflated tires maintain optimal contact with the road, benefiting traction and stability. Driving at high speeds can be a factor in hydroplaning, but it is more about the combination of speed with water on the road and tire condition. Instead, it is the combination of heavy rain and existing tire wear that significantly escalates the risk of hydroplaning in practical situations.