Rain Increases Crashes On I-15 Through Temecula: CHP

TEMECULA, CA — California Highway Patrol responded to numerous crashes in the Temecula Valley area on Sunday, prompting officials to share a rainy road reminder.

"Don't become a part of the splash zone," they advised over social media. "Slow down, folks. Wet pavement can be a slip-n-slide at higher speeds."

According to CHP Officer Brian Seel auto accidents jump over 203% when it rains because drivers don't adjust their habits.

"Wet weather causes more than 860,000 crashes nationwide each year, with 75% of weather-related crashes happening on wet pavement," he said.

A quick safety checklist before heading out on rain-slicked streets:

• Slow down. Reduce speed by about 1/3 on wet roads to avoid hydroplaning (especially that first rain after a dry spell, when oil makes everything extra slippery).
• Check your tires. Worn tread (below 4/32") can increase stopping distance by up to 87 feet on wet roads. That's like adding a semi-truck's length to your brake zone! Use the penny test: if you see Lincoln's whole head, it's time for new tires.9ec2c9
• Wipers working? Streaking or skipping blades = zero visibility in the downpour. Replace them regularly — bad wipers turn rain into a blind guessing game.

"Drive like your grandma's watching (and she's judging your tread depth)," Seel said. "Stay safe out there — arrive alive."