FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — The California Highway Patrol says there is an increase in accidents this time of year as people get complacent after a fog-free summer.

A wall of dust rolled across Madera County on Monday, leading to a massive pile-up on Highway 152.

“We slowed to a stop and then all the cars just kept coming and hit us,” said Delissa Fulce, an Oakhurst resident.

“We were hit three times by the cars behind us and I think they were hit behind us. So it was probably a 20-car pileup.”

“Our friend, who is now in the hospital, says we will be hit again,” said Julia Parra Pintado, the victim of the accident. “Be prepared. And we received and were hit on the back.”

The California Highway Patrol said the massive crash likely would have been hard to avoid given how quickly the dust moved.

While we may not see dust storms on a daily basis, we have entered foggy season and many drivers will be dealing with the Tule Fog as they head out in the early morning.

Dust and fog can lead to similar road conditions, and the California Highway Patrol says you should take similar precautions if you encounter either.

“Reduce your speed,” said Mike Salas, California Highway Patrol. “If you can’t see, don’t try to risk it. Pull over where it’s safe, turn on those emergency lights, stay in the car, with your seat belt on, and hopefully you can wait until the problem goes away.”

CHP spokesman Mike Salas said you can even turn on your emergency lights while driving to make yourself more visible.

When it comes to headlights, choose low beam over high beam.

“The high beam, all it does is a mirror effect, so it kind of blinds the driver, especially in the evening hours,” Salas said.

If your car has automatic headlights, Salas said don’t depend on the car to choose the right setting, especially during the day and know the forecast before you hit the road.

“Delay your journey as long as possible, if not,” said Salas.

“If you’re stuck in a situation where you feel there will be a danger to you or someone else on the road, pull well enough off the road so you don’t become a danger if someone comes up from behind. you.”

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