Driving in Arizona Dust Storms

Though monsoon season in Arizona doesn’t start until June, there have been a few early dust storms. There’s no way of knowing in advance when Arizona will be hit with another.

“Pull Aside, Stay Alive” Arizona Dust Storms Driving Campaign

Arizona will be re-launching its “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” campaign soon. In the meantime, there are some ways to prepare for when the season comes.

Safe Tips for Driving in Dust Storm Conditions

Here are some tips for when you encounter a dust storm:

-If you can, avoid driving into or through a dust storm.

-If you find yourself in a dust storm you should immediately check the traffic around your vehicle – this includes anyone driving in front of you, in back of you, and to the side of you. Begin to slow down.

-Safely pull off the road – do not wait until conditions are so poor that your visibility is affected. Exit the highway completely if it is possible.

-Make sure you do not stop in a travel lane, or in the emergency lane. Ensure that you are pulling off to a safe place that is completely off the paved portion of the roadway.

-Stop the vehicle in a position that a safe distance not only from the main roadway, but also away from where other vehicles might travel.

-Turn off the lights of the vehicle. This includes emergency flashers.

-Set the emergency brake and remove your foot from the brake.

-Remain in your vehicle with your seat belts buckled while you wait for the storm to pass.

-Drivers in high-profile vehicles need to be especially aware of the changing weather conditions. They should also travel at reduced speeds.

Driving Awareness in Dust Storms

A driver’s alertness and ability to drive safely are always key factors in preventing crashes, regardless of a dust storm or not. You should always practice safety when operating a motor vehicle.

If you’ve suffered from a motor vehicle accident, you need the expert advice of motor vehicle accident attorneys such as those at Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC.

Source: AZ Department of Transportation, Will you know what to do when a dust storm hits, April 9, 2014

Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC