Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer for Risks of Arizona Dust Storms

Arizona weather is known for its extremes. One of the most unique weather events is the massive dust storms, also known as “haboobs.” These storms propel large amounts of dust, grit and sand through Maricopa County and the Phoenix metro area. Sudden dust storms can be hazardous to motorcyclists because of the sudden decrease in visibility and the reactions of drivers of larger vehicles who may “just not see them.” Motorcyclists in Phoenix should be aware of how to stay safe when caught in dust storms in order to avoid potential accidents and injury.

Arizona’s dust storms occur across the dry southern portion of the state. They are most common on hot summer afternoons. They occur when storm systems collapse downwards and send a wave of wind forward that picks up dust and debris. Warning signs include high thunderhead clouds in the distance, or walls of dust seen on the horizon. Unfortunately, motorcyclists in the city or on sunken portions of the freeway may not see these precursors until it is too late to seek shelter.

The Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management recommends pulling off the road if visibility decreases below 300 feet. Severe dust storms have been known decrease visibility to near zero. Though large vehicles may be visible, a motorcycle will be much harder to spot. The singe tail light may confuse following traffic thinking it is a larger vehicle farther away, causing a rear-end collision. The decreased visibility in a dust storm only increases the tendency of larger vehicles to “just not see you.”

Multivehicle accidents can occur when vehicles follow too close to avoid sudden stops caused by the decreased visibility. Motorcyclists are incredibly vulnerable in these situations because they lack the protection a passenger vehicle’s cabin affords.

Dust carried by high winds can also irritate a motorcyclist’s vision. Crosswinds render wind screens ineffective, and dust may also enter helmets that are not completely sealed. When riding on rural highways, it is common to see high winds send tumbleweeds bouncing across the roadway, which can do serious damage to a rider’s legs if not equipped with the proper protection. In short, dust storms tax a motorcyclist’s ability to focus on the road and drive defensively, putting him or her at greater risk of being struck by another vehicle. 

The Arizona Department of Transportation reports that each year, an average of five people die due to sudden violent dust storms. Many more are seriously injured. In the event of a sudden and severe dust storm where you must pull off the road, motorcyclists can take the following precautions:

• Never stop in the middle of the road
• Pull off the road and turn OFF your lights
• Use a kickstand: do not engage your brake light
• Wait out the Storm

If you chose to risk traveling while the storm is still in effect, you can take the following precautions:

• Travel at a speed suitable for limited visibility
• Make sure your are lights on
• Use painted lane markers as a guide
• Look for potential shelter in case conditions worsen.

If you have been injured while riding a motorcycle in a dust storm in Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale or elsewhere in Maricopa County, it is recommended that you contact an experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. For more information on motorcycle accidents in Arizona, please visithttp://www.azmotorcycleaccidentlawyer.com/

Dust Storm Information and Safety Rules for Arizona. http://www.maricopa.gov/emerg_mgt/pdf/duststrm.pdf (2009).

Dust Storms in Arizona. http://www.dot.state.az.us/CCPartnerships/Haboob/index.asp (2009).