Safe Driving During An Arizona Haboob Dust Storm

Haboob may be a funny name, but Arizona’s dust storms are no laughing matter. Dust storms are the third largest cause of weather fatalities in the state. Phoenix car accident lawyer Sweet James is a leading haboob accident attorney in Arizona. He has helped hundreds of car accident victims, with Arizona haboob dust storms being a major cause of traffic accidents in the state. 
 
According to a report by the National Weather Service and University of Arizona Atmospheric Sciences, 157 people died and 1,324 were injured in 1,521 “dust incidents” on Arizona highways between 1955 and 2011.
 
Haboobs can create dangerous driving conditions, often reducing driver visibility to zero. This weather phenomena is notorious for creating deadly driving hazards and causing Tucson and Phoenix car accidents. Haboobs are most common in these areas. 
 
If you or a loved one has been injured in a haboob driving accident, contact Phoenix car accident lawyer Sweet James today to begin the healing process and get back on the road. 
 

What Is A Haboob?

 
A haboob is an intense dust storm that is unique to Arizona. Due to its size and speed, this type of storm has been classified as one of the biggest and deadliest hazards that Arizona drivers face. 
 
Haboobs occur predominantly between the months of May and September, as drier air accumulates in the desert. Haboobs create walls of dust and particles, spanning over 50 miles and reaching heights of 5,000 feet. Winds range from 50 mph to 70 mph, making this weather front one of the most perilous a driver can encounter. 
 

How Are Haboobs Formed?

 
Haboobs are formed during monsoon season, often created during the collapse of a thunderstorm. Because of Arizona’s hot and dry climate, rain storms do not always make it to ground level, making it seem as if a haboob has appeared out of nowhere. 
 
Any Phoenix car accident attorney will tell you that the best way to stay safe when caught in a haboob is to be prepared. Here are Arizona car accident attorney Sweet James’ top tips for safe driving during an Arizona haboob dust storm: 
 

How To Drive In A Haboob

 
If you see a dust storm forming, exit the freeway and pull to the side of the road immediately. Always have your lights on, regardless of where your car is. Haboobs can reduce visibility to zero, putting you at risk of a dust storm crash. 
 
Haboobs and large dust storms are such an issue on Arizona roadways that the Arizona Department of Transportation (AZDOT) has created an awareness campaign called “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” in order to increase safety awareness for this kind of weather. 
 
Here are the top tips for safe haboob driving, as suggested by the AZDOT Pull Aside, Stay Alive website: 

• Avoid driving into or through a dust storm.

• If you encounter a dust storm, immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.

• Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway — do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can.

• Do not stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane. Look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.

• Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers. You do not want other vehicles approaching from behind to use your lights as a guide, possibly crashing into your parked vehicle.

• Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.

• Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt buckled and wait for the storm to pass

• Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be especially aware of changing weather conditions and travel at reduced speeds.

Phoenix car accident attorney Sweet James also suggests keeping a well-stocked first aid kit in your car for emergencies. 
 

After A Haboob Traffic Accident

 
Haboobs can cause flying debris, downed power lines, reduced visibility, and other dangerous hazards. If you get caught in a powerful dust storm and find yourself involved in a haboob accident, your first priority is your safety and your passengers safety. 
 
Here are the top tips for haboob traffic accident safety following an Arizona dust storm crash: 

• Get out of the road
• Do not stop in a travel or emergency lane
• Increase your visibility
• If it is safe, stay in your vehicle with seatbelts fastened until the storm passes
• Close your air vents
• Dial 911
• Accept police and medical assistance
• Contact Phoenix car accident attorney Sweet James

Car Accident Attorney After An Arizona Haboob Dust Storm Accident

 
Dust storm car accidents can be devastating for both victims and their families. Navigating complex insurance claims and state law can cause additional anguish to the already difficult aftermath of a crash. You do not have to go through it alone – Phoenix car accident attorney Sweet James can help. 
 
From dealing with insurance agents to ensuring that you maximize your settlement value, Phoenix car accident attorney Sweet James will handle your haboob insurance claim from start to finish. Do not let yourself be undervalued by an insurance company. Contact Sweet James today to make sure you are getting what you deserve.