September 17, 2021 3:30 a.m. 

With rain in the forecast this weekend, that means slick roads are ahead.

Gary Leaming of the Oregon Department of Transportation said drivers should prepare now. The first rainfall of the season will lift oils and grime to the road surface causing slick patches on highways. Leaming said the hazard often catches motorists by surprise and is often followed by an increase in crashes.

A release said southern Oregon problem areas include the drive down mountain passes, especially on Interstate Five between Grants Pass and Roseburg. Interim Regional Manager Darrin Neavoll said, “Drivers typically get caught by not slowing down and end up either sliding off the road or crashing into other vehicles or the barrier”. Neavoll said it’s critical that they change their mindset to the season and drive to the conditions.

Rains on wildfire scars can also cause debris flows, especially on Highway 138E. Drivers should watch for hazards in those areas.

Before traveling, go to www.tripcheck.com to get the latest update on road conditions. More safe driving tips for fall and winter are linked: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/winter-driving.aspx