First responders provide tips on how to avoid weather-related accidents

The First Alert Weather Team is tracking an atmospheric river that is bringing rain to the Coachella Valley this week.

You can find in-depth forecast details here.

In past reports, California Highway Patrol told News Channel 3 that the rate of accidents tends to spike during rain events.

First responders say the best way to avoid an accident is to only drive when absolutely necessary.

If you do have to drive in the rain, first responders want you to avoid these common mistakes:

-Passive driving.

-Driving across flooded roadways.

-Not using your headlights or windshield wipers.

-Changing lanes too quickly or frequently.

-Driving too closely to other cars.

-Distracted driving.

News Channel 3's Tatum Larsen is in the process of speaking with the Palm Springs Fire Department and a local towing company for more insight on weather-related driving mistakes and how you can avoid them.

Watch News Channel 3 at 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. for more information.