Different parts of the country have different versions of extreme weather that can arise from time to time. Alaska has temperatures that dip far below freezing in the winter, Florida has lightning storms with heavy downpours and, here in Arizona, we have to deal with the occasional dust storm. The shifting pressure that occurs during the hottest months of the year creates dust storms that can overtake large areas with dense clouds of dust that can take a significant toll on visibility for drivers. These storms can vary greatly in frequency and intensity from year to year, and they can come up unexpectedly.
If you’re on the road during a dust storm, it’s important that you know how to handle the situation. Here are some helpful tips from a mobile mechanic in Flagstaff, AZ:
- Avoid dust storms if possible: It might seem like a no-brainer, but the best way to avoid the dangers of a dust storm is to avoid driving in one in the first place. If there’s an advisory in place, it’s better to wait it out and avoid getting out on the road.
- Be proactive: Don’t wait until you completely lose visibility to pull over during a dust storm. As soon as the storm begins passing by, check for traffic around you, move over and pull to the side of the road. Dust storms will get worse before they get better, which means that you shouldn’t wait around to pull over. It’s better to start getting to safety while you still have some visibility than to find yourself completely blinded because you waited too long to get to safety.
- Identify a safe place to stop: If you’re driving on the highway, try to get off at an exit if possible. If you’re too far away from an exit or are otherwise unable to leave the highway, try to get as far away from the road as you possibly can. Move off the road to a level area that’s as far from the pavement as you can get. Once you’re off the road, make sure to put your vehicle in park, engage the parking brake and turn off your lights. Leaving your lights on may mislead other drivers and cause them to unknowingly drive off the road.
- Wait it out: Make sure to keep your seatbelt on and stay in your vehicle for the duration of the storm. Wait until you have good visibility before leaving the spot where you’re parked. It’s a good idea to have some extra food and water in the vehicle with you in the event that you get stuck in a dust storm.
Unexpected conditions on the road happen all the time, but thanks to Maclin Truck & Trailer, you don’t have to stress about getting help from a mobile mechanic in Flagstaff, AZ. We specialize in offering roadside assistance to commercial vehicles, trucks and trailers and recreational vehicles. We understand that it can be complicated to repair a large vehicle on the side of the road, which is why we emphasize quality and safety during every service stop. If we can’t fix the problem on the roadside, we can tow you into our shop to complete the necessary repairs and get you back on your way. Find out more about the services we offer by giving us a call today.