Wet Roads Causes Multiple Crashes in Santa Maria Wednesday Morning

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) — Rainy conditions led to multiple traffic crashes across Santa Maria on Wednesday morning, slowing the commute as drivers navigated wet and slippery roadways.

According to the Santa Maria Police Department, at least four crashes believed to be weather-related had been reported by 11:30 a.m.

One of the more significant collisions occurred around 9 a.m. on Broadway, between Stowell Road and Enos Drive.

Police said two vehicles collided in the southbound lanes, leaving one car overturned onto its side in the right lane.

The crash caused traffic to back up several blocks during the busy morning commute.

Despite significant damage to both vehicles, particularly the car that tipped onto its side, no injuries were reported.

Santa Maria police said crashes like these are common when rain arrives after an extended dry spell, as water can mix with accumulated oil can create slippery driving conditions.

Earlier Wednesday morning, another multi-vehicle crash occurred on southbound Highway 101, just south of the Broadway off-ramp.

The collision left one vehicle spun around and facing the wrong direction on the right shoulder.

With rain in the forecast through Thursday, police are reminding drivers to slow down in wet weather, increase following distances and allow extra time to reach their destinations.

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