Arizona’s monsoon season brings unique weather hazards that can lead to dangerous driving conditions and car accidents. As a resident of the Grand Canyon State, it’s crucial to be aware of these risks and know how to navigate them safely. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common weather hazards during monsoon season, provide tips for staying safe on the road, and explain how a firm like Miller Kory Rowe can help if you’ve been involved in a weather-related car accident.
COMMON WEATHER HAZARDS DURING MONSOON SEASON
Monsoon season in Arizona typically lasts from mid-June to the end of September, bringing a variety of weather hazards that can make driving more challenging. Some of the most common hazards include:
- Heavy rain: Sudden downpours can reduce visibility and cause roads to become slippery, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and accidents.
- Flash floods: Intense rainfall can lead to flash floods, which can wash out roads and make them impassable. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, more than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into floodwaters.
- Dust storms: High winds can pick up dust and create massive dust storms, reducing visibility to near zero and making it extremely difficult to see other vehicles on the road.
- Extreme heat: Arizona’s summer temperatures can reach well over 100°F, causing vehicle components to overheat and fail, leading to breakdowns and accidents.
TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE ON THE ROAD DURING MONSOON SEASON
Knowing how to handle these weather hazards can help you stay safe on the road during monsoon season. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on the local weather forecast and be aware of any potential hazards before you hit the road. The National Weather Service is a great resource for up-to-date weather information.
- Slow down: Reduce your speed in heavy rain, dust storms, or other low-visibility conditions to give yourself more time to react to any potential hazards.
- Maintain a safe following distance: Keep a greater distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow for more stopping time in case of sudden braking.
- Turn on your headlights: Make sure your headlights are on in low-visibility conditions to help other drivers see your vehicle.
- Avoid flooded roads: If you encounter a flooded road, find an alternate route. It’s difficult to judge the depth of water covering a road, and even a few inches of water can cause your vehicle to lose control or stall.
- Keep your vehicle in good condition: Regular maintenance, including checking your tires, brakes, and cooling system, can help prevent breakdowns and accidents caused by vehicle failure in extreme heat.
HOW MILLER KORY ROWE CAN HELP IF YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN A WEATHER-RELATED CAR ACCIDENT
If you’ve been involved in a car accident due to weather hazards, it’s essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side. At Miller Kory Rowe, we understand the unique challenges that Arizona’s monsoon season presents and have the expertise to help you navigate the legal process. We can assist with:
- Investigating the cause of the accident and determining liability
- Gathering evidence to support your claim, including weather reports, witness statements, and police reports
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages
- Representing you in court if necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve
Don’t let Arizona’s unique weather hazards leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps after a car accident. Contact Miller Kory Rowe today for a free consultation and let our experienced personal injury attorneys help you navigate the road to recovery.