Most people do not associate Arizona with bad weather; in fact, its friendly climate is one of the reasons that it is such a popular destination for retirement. Despite its image as a retiree’s paradise, like Florida but without the hurricanes or alligators, Arizona does have its own share of weather hazards. This is not to discourage anyone from moving to Arizona, of course, but rather to warn drivers about the dangers of driving in inclement weather. Bad weather, such as heavy rain, is a major cause of traffic accidents in Arizona. These are some hazards to watch out for and how to avoid them.
Beware of Slippery Surfaces
Rain is not the only thing that can make roads slippery. It is, of course, a major cause of slippery roads, however. The roads are even more slippery right after a rainstorm begins than they are when there are several inches of rain on the ground. This is because rain washes the oils off the road, and when the rain has just started, there is still some slippery oil on the road surface in addition to the rainwater. Other causes of slippery surfaces include mud, wet leaves, snow, ice, oil spots, and smooth steel such as manhole covers. Dirt roads and gravel-covered surfaces may not sound like they would be slippery, but they offer less traction than dry, paved roads.
Other Driving Hazards Related to Rain
Slippery roads are not the only factor that makes it dangerous to drive in the rain, although the fact that it is harder to brake on wet roads is one of the hazards of driving in rainy conditions. Heavy rain leads to reduced visibility. Therefore, it is important to turn on your headlights and tail lights when you drive in the rain. If the rain is particularly heavy, or if you are driving in the rain at night, you should use your high beams. Heavy rain also sometimes requires that you drive at speeds lower than the speed limit. Turn on your hazard lights if visibility is very low and you are driving very slowly.
Driving in Very Hot Weather
Arizona’s biggest weather hazard is extreme temperatures; almost every summer has some days where the temperature is above 100 degrees. While the sky may be sunny and clear, leading to excellent visibility, driving in extremely hot weather brings with it its own set of hazards. You are at risk of many types of car malfunction when you drive in extremely hot temperatures. Not only can your engine overheat, but your car’s battery, belts, and hoses are also at greater risk of malfunction when you drive in extreme heat.
Contact Eric Schmidt About Cases Related to Vehicular Accidents
Inclement weather can contribute to traffic accidents in Arizona, but so can unsafe driving and poorly maintained roads. If your car or motorcycle accident was the result of someone else’s negligence, it could be grounds for a lawsuit. Contact Eric Schmidt in Phoenix, Arizona to discuss your case.
