Arizona’s monsoon season is here, running from June 15 to September 30 each year. According to the National Weather Service, much of the area receives between 40 to 50 percent of its annual precipitation during this yearly weather pattern, resulting from a wind shift that brings moisture to the southwest.
The season’s storms often darken the sky swiftly and unexpectedly and, while thunderstorms are brief, dust storms and heavy rainfall can limit visibility and cause slick roadways. That inclement weather can create dangerous driving conditions.
In addition to ensuring you are adequately protected with a car insurance policy from a local independent insurance agent required by state law, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) offers several safe driving tips. Here are some ways to ensure your safety when driving during Arizona’s monsoon season:
Tip 1: Always be prepared for the unexpected. As mentioned, area storms often appear with minimal notice, making staying alert for changes in weather or other potentially hazardous conditions crucial.
Tip 2: In low visibility situations, such as torrential rainfall or thick dust, pull your vehicle off the road as far to the right as possible, turn off your lights, and set your parking brake.
Tip 3: Never risk crossing a flooded wash or going around “road closed” signs. The National Weather Service cautions that you cannot know the road’s condition in a flash flood and that “two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles…” (NWS).
Tip 4: ADOT further recommends treating an intersection as a four-way stop should the traffic lights be out in that area (ADOT).
Spotlight on Comprehensive Car Insurance
Collision coverage protects you against loss resulting from a collision with another vehicle or a stationary object. It also covers the upset of the car. Comprehensive coverage insures against loss “other than collision” theft, vandalism, fire, windstorms, hail, flood, and glass breakage. This level of protection can provide incredible peace of mind year-round.
Typically, collision and comprehensive insurance are required when the vehicle is being financed, although you can also choose this coverage if there is no lien on the car. These coverage types require choosing a deductible that you’re comfortable paying. The deductible must be met before the insurance provider paying the balance of any claim.
Receive a Complimentary Quote Today
Hegarty-Haynes Insurance understands the importance of providing superior quality insurance solutions and has dedicated our resources to helping Arizonans find excellent coverage at affordable prices. What sets our agency apart from others is our commitment to ongoing support and responsiveness backed by years of experience.
Receive a complimentary quote and experience the difference today by allowing an independent insurance agent in Tempe to secure the best car, home, life, or business insurance for your specific needs.
Contact Hegarty-Haynes Insurance online or at (480) 820-2297. We look forward to helping you find the insurance coverage that is ideal for your personal or commercial needs. Our agency, conveniently located South of Hwy 60 on Lakeshore Dr., is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Resources:
“Monsoons.” Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).
“Northern Arizona Monsoon Season – What is the Monsoon? – Basic Monsoon Information” National Weather Service (NWS).
“Turn Around Don’t Drown – Flood Safety Information.” National Weather Service (NWS).
“What is covered by a basic auto insurance policy?” Insurance Information Institute (III).
