The CHP warns drivers to stay safe during wet weather

As more storms are expected in the coming weeks, the California Highway Patrol says they’re urging everyone to take safe driving seriously.

The wet weather brings serious dangers to the roads. Dangers that can still be there even after the rain has gone.

Officer Trista Drake says some of the most important things drivers can do to make roads safe are simple.

“Number one is slow down, that’s the common sense answer that we give,” Drake said, “Slow down, give yourself more time to get where you’re going.”

Advice to follow even after the weather has cleared up.

“If it lets up and you see a break in the weather the roads are still really wet and slippery so you still need to adjust your speed, even though it’s not actively raining.”

Also, before and after the rain, that puddle you think you can brave may be deceiving.

“If you’re questioning the depth of the water, definitely don’t risk it, don’t try to drive through, you don’t know how deep the water is, you can’t judge it,” Drake said, “Especially if it’s standing water.”

Downed power lines are another thing the CHP says to steer clear of.

“If you see wires down in the road, don’t try to drive over them. Don’t get close to them, don’t touch them,” Drake said.

If you do follow all those tips and an accident, big or small still happens, The CHP says it’s just a phone call away.

“We try to have [Santa Cruz] county saturated with officers when it’s raining,” Drake said.

Another important reminder, if your windshield wipers are on, your headlights should be too. Even in the day time.