CHP Officers offering safety tips ahead of rain storm

SANTA MARIA, Calif.- More rain is on the way for the Central and South Coasts and CHP Officers want to make sure everyone stays safe on the wet roads.

Officers say the rain often washes debris onto local highways, causing crashes up and down the coast.

CHP Officer Michael Griffith says if a driver starts to hydroplane, do not slam on your breaks,
instead, take your foot off the gas and keep both hands on the wheel while you try to regain control of your car. Another concern mud, rocks, and trees hitting the roads.

“Number one is always slow down. That's the number one cause of crashes in the rain. But also be aware of debris in the roadway," said Officer Michael Griffith, California Highway Patrol.

Just last week a tree fell across Highway 101 on The Gaviota Coast, causing a multi-car crash.
the CHP will be conducting traffic breaks to try to prevent crashes like this.

Officer Griffith says Highway 154, the Nojoqui Grade, and the Gaviota rest stop are hot spots for crashes during rain storms.

“Going through the Gaviota area, it's it's prone to really strong winds. And going through that area, it could blow you out of your lane into the other lane," said Officer Michael Griffith, California Highway Patrol.