Tips for Driving in the Rain in Jefferson City, TN

8 Tips for Driving in Rainy Conditions in Jefferson City, TN

Rain creates slippery roads and reduces visibility, explaining why it’s a leading cause of car accidents. That’s a pretty frightening fact, but it doesn’t mean you should avoid driving in the rain altogether. Instead, utilize some tips to stay safe and avoid accidents when driving in rainy conditions in Jefferson City, TN.

1. Test Your Wipers, Brakes, and Lights

Your windshield wipers and lights improve visibility when driving in the rain. Then, your brakes play a vital role in ensuring you come to a complete stop and avoid accidents. Since these components are critical to your safety, test them out before driving in rainy conditions. Replace burned-out bulbs, worn wipers, and malfunctioning brakes if necessary so they won’t fail when you’re on the road.

2. Evaluate Your Tires

Your tires are responsible for maintaining traction with the road so you can control your car. Evaluate your tires for cracks and bulges and place a penny between the tread to check for wear. You shouldn’t be able to see the top of Lincoln’s head when you insert the penny face-down between the treads. If the tread’s worn, schedule a tire service at Tarr Chevrolet in Jefferson City, TN.

3. Increase Visibility by Turning on the Headlights

You’re required to turn on your headlights when driving in the rain in Jefferson City, TN. Automatic headlights don’t always turn on when it’s raining, so flip the lights on manually if needed. Once on, your headlights will illuminate the path in front of you while making your car visible to other drivers.

4. Slow Down and Increase Your Following Distance

The faster you drive in rainy conditions, the harder it is for your tires to maintain traction. Even driving the posted speed limit puts you at risk of losing control, so reduce your speed by one-third. For instance, assume the posted speed limit is 30 mph. One-third of that is 10 mph, meaning you should drive 20 mph.

Along with slowing down, you also need to maintain a following distance of at least six seconds behind cars in front of you. The extra space will give you plenty of time to come to a complete stop if needed.

5. Brake and Turn Slowly

Quick movements and actions are hazardous when driving in rainy conditions in Jefferson City, TN. Your tires can lose traction when slamming on the brakes and turning sharply, so stick to slow movements when it’s raining. Don’t be afraid to double back if you miss a turn. While it will take a little extra time, it’s a key to avoiding an accident.

6. Turn Off Cruise Control

Cruise control has advanced quite a bit; now, technology does most of the work for you. This is especially true when driving a 2024 Chevrolet Traverse or another vehicle equipped with Super Cruise technology. More than just cruise control, Super Cruise offers hand-free driving when on specific roads.

All cruise control technologies work best in dry conditions and should be avoided when it’s raining. Maintaining traction is harder in rainy conditions, and cruise control might overload your tires and cause your car to hydroplane.

7. Get Your Car Under Control When Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning can happen, even if you take precautions when driving in the rain in Jefferson City, TN. If you begin hydroplaning, take your foot off the gas and avoid the brake. Gently steer your car in your desired direction until your car regains traction. Then, you can continue driving as normal.

8. Ventilate the Cabin

Windshields often fog up when driving in rainy conditions, so use your car’s defroster as needed. If your windshield is still foggy, crack the window a bit. The fresh air will balance the indoor and outdoor humidity and temperature, defogging your windshield in the process.

Visit Tarr Chevrolet for Cars With the Latest Safety Features

It’s normal to feel a little nervous when driving in rainy conditions. Still, you’ll feel much more relaxed when you’re confident your car can handle the rain. Head to Tarr Chevrolet in Jefferson City, TN, to look at new and pre-owned vehicles with ample safety and driver-assist features.

Do you want to get a little more out of your current car? Tarr Chevrolet’s service center can inspect and repair your car so it will be ready for rainy weather.