Deadly mistakes on wet roads: Tips to stay safe while driving in the El Paso area rain

EL PASO, Texas -- Wet roads can increase your likelihood of being in a deadly car crash by 34%, according to a study in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society.

"The biggest reason that it's dangerous to drive in wet and rainy weather is because the road surface that you're driving on is slipperier," said Kerran Fowlkes, the president of Sunny Day Defensive Driving in El Paso. "Because of the rain, but also because of any oil that may be on the road surface that typically mixes with the water."

Fowlkes says it's important drivers slow down during wet weather like we're experiencing currently in the El Paso area, and increase the following distance between themselves and the car ahead of them.

"Leave as early as possible," Fowlkes said. "If that's not possible, set the expectation with the people who are depending on you that you're going to be a little late because the very worst thing you can do one the road is speed when it's wet or raining."

Fowlkes also recommends maintaining your car year-round, especially your tires, as the age of your tires can impact your likelihood of hydroplaning.

If you start to hydroplane, Fowlkes says not to panic. Keep both hands on the wheel, slowly let go of the gas and avoid hard or heavy braking.

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