CHP Offers Drivers Tips for Safely Navigating Wet Roads This Winter
Central Coast Saw Spike in Collisions During Early November Rains
As winter approaches, and with it the increased chance of rainy weather, California High Patrol (CHP) is offering Santa Barbara County residents a few tips for driving safely on wet roads this holiday season.
During the last two days of rain this past November 7 and 8, the CHP responded to 21 traffic crashes on the Nojoqui Grade between Buellton and Gaviota — a significant increase from the previous two, rainless days, during which the CHP responded to no collisions. These crashes ranged from non-injury to one fatal crash.
According to Michael Griffith, a CHP officer in Buellton, there has been an increase in collisions during the past few months on the Central Coast. There have historically been spikes of collisions during the rain, particularly during the first rains of the year. However, Griffith noted that during the rains earlier this month, “the spike was even more significant.”
