Summer weather in Arizona isn’t just hot. While most days bring extreme heat, summer is also monsoon season. Monsoons can arrive quickly and dump tons of rain with little notice, leading to flash flooding that can make driving particularly dangerous. If you get caught on the road during a storm this summer, follow these tips to stay safe and avoid a costly recovery for you and your vehicle.
Don’t Gamble with Flooded Roadways
When the dry desert floor sees an influx of rain, all that water cannot absorb into the ground fast enough, so floods become common. What might normally be a dry wash can turn into a raging river in just a few minutes. And even when the water doesn’t look that deep, it can be a forceful foe for your vehicle. Driving through a flooded area may cause you to lose control of your vehicle and become stuck. You might even risk being swept away if you are in a wash where water can move quickly.
Once your vehicle is recovered from a flooded wash or roadway, you are only facing the beginning of your troubles. Flooding can seize up your engine, damage your vehicle’s electrical system, and contaminate fluids. If water enters the cabin of the vehicle, it will also cause extensive damage to the interior. Plus, you could face substantial fines for the recovery itself. Arizona’s “Stupid Motorist Law” puts drivers on the hook for expenses related to their rescue and vehicle recovery when they have ignored signs and barricades warning against entering a flood-prone area.
Check the Forecast Often and Plan Your Route Carefully
While conditions can be unpredictable and change quickly during monsoon season, it is still a good idea to check the daily forecast so you can be prepared. You should also plan your route to avoid commonly flooded areas such as washes and underpasses.
When in Doubt, Wait It Out
A golden rule for drivers in Arizona during monsoon season is “when in doubt, wait it out”. Whether you are approaching a flooded roadway or driving through an active storm with low visibility, the best strategy is to pull over to safety and wait for conditions to improve. When you are pulled over waiting out low- or zero-visibility conditions, the Arizona Department of Transportation recommends turning off your lights, setting the parking brake, and taking your foot off the brake pedal. This reduces the risk of other drivers following your vehicle and potentially causing a collision.
When accidents and breakdowns do happen, Barnett’s Towing is here for your 24/7/365. Our tow truck operators provide skilled towing services in all weather conditions, and we have a fleet of specialized equipment to provide emergency towing services in even the most challenging areas. Count on us to get you and your vehicle to safety. Contact us for more information or to request a tow.