RALEIGH — As heavy rainfall moves across North Carolina today and this evening. The N.C. Department of Transportation reminds motorists that rain and rushing water across roadways can create hazardous driving conditions, which increases the likelihood of an accident.

Roads are closed in Ashe and Watauga counties due to high water covering bridges or the road caused by the storm. Other areas across the state could experience similar conditions as the rains move across the state.

NCDOT statewide crash data shows that rain or wet road surfaces were a factor in 198,033 crashes between 2006 and 2010, resulting in 972 fatalities and more than 94,000 injuries.

The best ways to stay safe during this type of weather are to drive defensively and stay alert. No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, ...