Hydroplaning and Heavy Rain Driving Tips for Knoxville Drivers

Heavy rain can turn a normal drive around Knoxville into a slide. Hydroplaning happens when a layer of water builds up between your tires and the road, so the tires lose grip. Here is how to lower the risk and what to do if it happens.

Lower your risk before it starts

• Slow down. Hydroplaning gets much more likely as speed goes up on wet roads.
• Check tread depth and tire pressure; worn or underinflated tires channel water poorly.
• Turn off cruise control in the rain so you stay in control of speed.
• Drive in the tracks of the car ahead and avoid standing water and puddles.

If your car starts to hydroplane

• Ease off the gas. Do not slam the brakes.
• Keep the steering wheel pointed where you want to go and make only small corrections.
• Once you feel the tires grip again, brake gently if you need to slow down more.

After a slide or spin

If you ended up in a ditch, against a guardrail, or with a damaged wheel, do not try to drive out on a soft shoulder. Turn on your hazards, stay safe, and call for help. A tow truck can winch or recover the car without causing more damage.

Need towing or a winch-out?

Knoxville Towing offers 24/7 towing and roadside help across Knoxville, Farragut, Maryville, and Oak Ridge.