• Replace worn wipers: Are your windshield wipers skipping, squeaking, or streaking? If so, it's probably time to replace them. Replacing your blades will do wonders for improving your visibility to help you better react to anything that happens while you are on the road.
• Eliminate distractions and focus: If it's raining, driving demands your undivided attention. Keep your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel.
• Drive at a comfortable speed: During a rainstorm, don't use cruise control. Even if cars are speeding around you, you can stay under the posted speed limits within a range you feel good about.
• Don't tailgate!: Make sure to keep a minimum of five car lengths, or one second of following distance per ten miles per hour, between you and the car in front of you. This will give you ample time to brake quickly or respond to anything that may happen.
• Be prepared for skids or hydroplaning: Even if you're an extremely safe driver, you may still be at risk for skidding or hydroplaning. If you start skidding, do not slam on the brakes! Don't panic and slowly steer in the direction you want to go. Similar steps should be followed if you are hydroplaning (when your travels on top of water and has little to no contact with the ground). Don't make any sudden movements, let off the gas, and slowly steer in the direction you need to go.

Make sure you keep these steps in mind to improve your chances of safe travel this season in Knoxville.