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Can Dust Storms Increase Traffic Accidents in Arizona?

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Research is showing that in the state of Arizona, the likelihood of a car accident is increased when the dust storms or monsoons get rolling across the Valley. The monsoon experts are noticing that the trend of dust storms are becoming much more frequent, which causes great concerns for traffic accidents that are caused by lack of vision from the storm. Not only are the accidents on the road bringing concerns to researchers, they are also taking into consideration the health damages that can be caused from inhaling too much dust. One scientist from Arizona’s Institute of Atmospheric Physics is studying possibilities of being able to determine the dust storms beforehand, though these studies are very much still in the works. Due to climate changes in the state, scientists are also seeing a high probability of there being more dust storms in the future.

In Phoenix last July, reports of possibly the largest dust storm in Arizona hit. The dust created a wall that was about a mile and a half high and around 40,000 tons of dust and sand in it. Dust storms can result in the destruction of a city, which then can lead to many lives placed in danger. It is said that between the years of 2001-2005 there were 2,232 traffic accidents that were caused by the dust storms resulting in the deaths of 44 people in the state of New Mexico. In Arizona there were a total of 614 accidents and 15 deaths from the storms. While there is still much research to be done in regards to the dust storms in Arizona, it is important to be aware that car accidents can and do happen. Keep on the alert when driving, be cautious of your surroundings and slow down or pull over if you believe the danger to be increasing from the dust. If you or someone you know is ever involved in a car accident and is in need of a personal injury attorney, contact Knowles Law Firm today!

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