Phoenix Accident Statistics

StatisticNews

  • Accident Causes

    Driving While Using Phone Fines Start in 2021

    Statewide (January 8, 2021) – Although driving while using a mobile has been illegal in Arizona since April 2019, fines for the offense were delayed until 2021. Arizona was one of the last states in America to ban cellphone use while driving and distracted driving remains a big problem in the state. Mobile phone use while driving is one of the leading causes of distracted driving, which is one of the biggest causes of car accidents.

    Fines for a first offense range from $75 to $149. Repeat offenses can result in fines between $150 to $250. Hopefully the new fines will reduce the number of distracted driving accidents in Arizona. If you or a family member have suffered harm due to a distracted driver, contact Lerner and Rowe immediately. Source: AP

    Unsecured Christmas Trees Lead to Highway Accidents

    Statewide (December 3, 2020) – For many Arizonans, it’s tradition to take a trip north, find the perfect Christmas tree, and bring it home for the holidays. Unfortunately, improperly secured Christmas trees can lead to major car accidents, especially on freeways. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) strongly urges motorists to make sure that their Christmas tree is tightly secured to their vehicle before driving home.

    Unsecured Christmas trees can be a disastrous surprise for highway motorists. Driving at high speeds and suddenly having to make a split-second decision could lead to a catastrophic injury. Lerner and Rowe urges you to be extremely cautious while driving a Christmas tree home in order to avoid a severe winter injury. Source: ADOT

    Winter Is Coming to Arizona

    Statewide (November 20, 2020) – Arizona is getting chilly, with some parts of the state already dropping below 20F in the evening. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) hopes that all residents and visitors prepare for winter driving conditions. While the state isn’t known for its snow, the agency claims that 715 car accidents were caused by snow in 2019.

    Lerner and Rowe hopes that you prepare your car for the season and are familiar with the common causes of Arizona winter car accidents. Being prepared and having good information go a long way towards keeping you safe on the road. Should you get into a car crash caused by a reckless driver, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Source: ADOT

    ADOT Launches Distracted Driving Campaign

    Statewide (October 23, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has launched a multimedia campaign to curb distracted driving. The theme of the campaign is “Distracted Drivers Terrify Me.” The agency hopes to reach younger drivers through YouTube videos, Facebook profile picture frames, Instagram stickers, and Giphy animated GIFs.

    Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing causes of car accidents. ADOT claims that 100% of distracted driving accidents are avoidable. By increasing awareness of the issue, ADOT hopes to decrease this unfortunate cause of preventable traffic accidents. Should you or a family member get into an accident caused by a distracted driver, Lerner and Rowe is available to help 24/7. Source: ADOT

    Bushfire Conditions Remain in Arizona

    Statewide (September 4, 2020) – The Arizona bushfire season is lasting longer than normal, due to a combination of high temperatures, heavy winds, and other atmospheric conditions. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reminds motorists to be mindful of bushfire conditions and note that State Route 87 is still undergoing repairs from previous wildfire damage.

    Lerner and Rowe urges you to be careful if you’re driving over Labor Day Weekend. Bushfires can lead to severe burn injuries, while the resulting damage can cause car accidents. Our team hopes that you have an enjoyable holiday weekend. Should you or a loved one suffer a personal injury over Labor Day Weekend, please contact us immediately. Source: ADOT

    Phoenix Hits Record Heat

    Phoenix (August 7, 2020) – Temperatures in Phoenix reached 114 degrees on Monday, matching the record for August 3 set in 1975 and tied in 2009 and 2019. Last week temperatures hit 118 degrees, setting a new record for July 30. July 2020 is now the hottest month in Phoenix history.

    Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds you to exercise caution during extreme heat. Phoenix summers bring about high chances of heat-related injuries and a rise in car accidents. Please do everything possible to stay safe and cool. Should you suffer a heat-related injury caused by another party, our attorneys are available 24/7 to assist you. Source: Associated Press

    Summer is the Most Dangerous Driving Season

    Statewide (July 6, 2020) – According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), summer is the most dangerous season for driving in Arizona. Increased drivers on the road, additional construction, vehicle equipment failure, and higher instances of DUIs lead to summer car accidents. While this year’s summer is expected to have fewer people on the road due to COVID-19, it’s still important to be cautious when driving this season.

    Lerner and Rowe hopes that you and your family have a safe and wonderful summer. To help reduce your chances of a faulty part resulting in a car accident, please have your vehicle inspected to ensure that it can handle excessive heat. Should you get into a car accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Source: NHTSA

    Be Prepared for Monsoon Season

    Statewide (June 15, 2020) – Monsoon season in Arizona starts in June and can last through September. Be prepared for sudden rainstorms, dust storms, and flash flooding. If you’re caught in a monsoon, reduce your speed to remain safe. If the storm is particularly severe, pull over to the side of the road until it subsides. The harsh conditions caused by monsoons could lead to accidents that are easy to avoid with the proper precautions.

    Unfortunately, road conditions aren’t always the best following a monsoon. Debris and other obstacles may pile up before city workers have had a chance to move them. If you’ve gotten into a car accident due to unsafe conditions created by a monsoon, please contact Lerner and Rowe for immediate assistance.

    Higher Temperatures Can Lead to Accidents

    Statewide (May 8, 2020) – With Arizona temperatures regularly exceeding 100F, it’s vital to check your car’s condition. Battery condition, fluid levels, and tire pressure need special attention going into the summer. Failing or malfunctioning equipment can lead to an otherwise avoidable car accident. If the failure occurs while driving at high speeds, the results could be catastrophic.

    Lerner and Rowe strongly encourages you to inspect your car or have it inspected before summer fully arrives. Simple maintenance can help prevent costly car crashes. As always, our team is ready to assist you and your family in the event of a car accident. Source: AAA

    Heavier Trucks Can Lead to Bigger Accidents

    Statewide (April 9, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation has announced that it will temporarily allow heavier trucks to operate on state roads. The normal gross weight limit of 80,000 pounds has been increased to 90,000 pounds. Governor Doug Ducey permitted the increase in order to bring more food and essential supplies into Arizona during the COVID-19 outbreak.

    Although there are fewer cars on the road during the coronavirus quarantine, heavier trucks present a new danger. The heavier gross weight can increase the severity of a truck accident. Heavier trucks have a bigger impact, which means a higher chance of catastrophic injury. Should you and your family get hit by a truck, contact Lerner and Rowe’s truck accident attorneys for immediate assistance. Source: ADOT

  • Accident Statistics

    Arizona One of the Worst States for Pedestrian Accidents

    Statewide (January 13, 2021) – The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) has reported that Arizona is one of the five deadliest states for pedestrian accidents. The agency found that 47% of U.S. fatal pedestrian accidents occurred in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, and Texas. One reason for the higher concentration in these states is that their warmer climates lead to more people walking year-round.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds pedestrians to keep an eye out for traffic and to follow our pedestrian safety tips. Our team also reminds motorists to be mindful of pedestrians and to show them proper consideration. If you or a family member have suffered an Arizona pedestrian accident, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Source: GHSA

    Get Ready for Winter Driving

    Statewide (December 18, 2020) – Winter is coming to Arizona, with temperatures already dipping to the mid-teens in some parts of the state. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported that there were 715 car accidents in the state caused by snow in 2019. This included a record-breaking snowstorm in February. The upcoming winter is expected to be similarly harsh.

    Lerner and Rowe urges you to drive cautiously when there’s snow on the roads. Always check road conditions before you drive and be mindful of snowbird migration. Please follow our winter driving safety tips for additional measures. If you or a loved get into a car accident or suffer a winter injury, our team of legal professionals is available to assist you 24/7. Source: ADOT

    More Than 10,000 Distracted Driving Accidents in 2019

    Statewide (November 10, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) revealed that at least 10,491 drivers were involved in car accidents caused by distracted driving behavior last year. One of the most frequent causes of distracted driving car accidents in 2019 was mobile phone use while driving.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds you that using a mobile phone while driving is illegal in Arizona. If you need to use your phone in your car, please do so in hands-free mode or with a modern infotainment system like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Should you get into a car accident due to a distracted driver, please contact us immediately. Source: ADOT

    Incident Response Unit Responds to 10,400 Incidents

    Phoenix (October 6, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported that its Incident Response Unit (IRU) has responded to 10,400 freeway incidents since being deployed in October 2019. The IRU was established to assist with car accidents, disabled vehicles, debris, and other incidents on Phoenix freeways. According to the agency, 250 motor vehicle collisions occur each day on Metro Phoenix freeways and the IRU has been a great help for rapid response.

    Lerner and Rowe applauds ADOT for successfully implementing the IRU. The 14-person team has proven effective in increasing the safety of Phoenix freeways. With continued success, we hope to see the program expand throughout the state, increasing safety for all Arizona residents. Source: ADOT

    Not Using a Safety Device Led to 282 Deaths

    Statewide (September 30, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has reported that 282 people died and 44,371 injured because of not using a safety device. While car accidents are dangerous on their own, not using a seatbelt or safety seat makes them exponentially more dangerous.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds you to alwaysuse a seatbelt while driving, make sure that adult passengers are also properly strapped in, and to make sure that youngsters use a car seat appropriate for their height and weight. Proper use of a safety device is a very simple and very effective way to avoid significant injuries in the event of a car accident. Should you suffer car accident injuries despite taking the right precautions, contact us for immediate assistance. Source: ADOT

    Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons Lead to Decrease Accidents

    Statewide (August 1, 2020) – Pedestrian hybrid beacons have been used in Arizona since 2012 and have proven to be an effective deterrent against car and pedestrian accidents. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), pedestrian hybrid beacons have led to a 25% reduction of severe total crashes, a 46% reduction of pedestrian-involved crashes, and a 29% reduction of severe rear-end crashes.

    Lerner and Rowe is thrilled that pedestrian hybrid beacons have kept Arizonans safer. While they’re prevalent in the cities we have offices in, including Bullhead City, Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson, we hope that they continue to spread throughout the state. That said, it’s impossible to prevent all accidents. Should you or a family member get into a pedestrian or car accident, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Souce: ADOT

    Majority of Arizona Fatal Crashes Caused by Driver Behavior

    Statewide (July 24, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) claims that the vast majority of car accident fatalities are caused by driver behavior. Director John Halikowski claims, “More than 90% of crashes are caused by driver behavior. Speeding, impairment, distraction, and aggressive driving are leading factors in fatal crashes.”

    The Arizona team at Lerner and Rowe hopes that you and the drivers in your family drive as safely as possible. Please be mindful of distracted and impaired driving, and obey all traffic laws. Remember, our compassionate lawyers are available 24/7 if you’ve gotten into a car accident. Source: ADOT

    Distracted Driving Crashes Down Nearly 12%

    Statewide (June 30, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported that collisions caused by distracted driving were down sharply in 2019. The agency reported 11,898 accidents caused by distracted driving in 2018, compared to 10,491 in 2019. The figures represent a year-over-year decrease of 11.8%.

    Lerner and Rowe is thrilled to learn that distracted driving car crashes are down in Arizona. Our entire team hopes that everyone in the state does their best to stay focused and keep their attention on the road. However, we understand that accidents can happen through no fault of your own. If you’ve been in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, contact us and our team can help you get maximum compensation for your injuries. Source: ADOT

    Motorcycle Registrations Up, Accident Percentage Down

    Statewide (May 15, 2020) – Arizona is known for having some of the best motorcycle rides in the nation. However, it’s also known for having lax motorcycle helmet laws, with the universal helmet law repealed in 1976. Despite motorcycle registrations steadily increasing since 2014, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported that the percentage of motorcycle accidents in the state’s total mix has also been decreasing, down to 2.15% of all motor vehicle crashes in 2018.

    While Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is pleased that motorcycle safety is improving, our team implores you to celebrate Motorcycle Safety Month by following these important motorcycle safety tips. Should you suffer an injury caused by another while on a motorcycle ride, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. Source: ADOT

    Check Your Tires as Arizona Heats Up

    Statewide (April 30, 2020) – Arizona is heating up, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The relatively sudden and abrupt change makes it a good time to check your tire pressure and treads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates nearly 11,000 accidents and more than 700 deaths happen annually in tire-related accidents. Unsafe tire conditions are one reason that accidents increase in the summertime.

    Lerner and Rowe encourages you to check your tires before your next drive. A quick safety check could help you and your family avoid a serious car accident. If you or a loved one were hit and injured by a car with poorly conditioned tires, our attorneys can help you. Source: NHTSA

  • News

    Arizona COVID-19 Vaccinations Enters Phase 1B

    Statewide (January 14, 2021) – The Arizona Department of Health (AZDHS) has announced that the state has entered phase 1B of its COVID-19 vaccination plan. Arizonans 65 and older are advised to register with AZDHS for appointments starting January 19, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Additionally, Phoenix Municipal Stadium (5999 E. Van Buren Street) will serve as the state’s second mass vaccination site in order to handle new patients.

    Health officials believe that mass vaccination is an integral part of COVID-19 mitigation. It will help limit infections, relieve hospital burden, and keep Arizonans safer from the latest coronavirus strain. If you’re 65 or older and are interested in learning more about the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit the AZDHS website. Source: AZDHS

    Phoenix Highway Cleaning This Weekend

    Phoenix (December 11, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has issued a travel advisory for this weekend. Portions of the I-10 and Loop 101 will be closed for regularly scheduled cleaning. Expect increased traffic and detours throughout the weekend.

    Unfortunately, highway maintenance increases the chance of a car accident, due to drivers not paying attention to work zones, debris and equipment entering freeway lanes, and more. Furthermore, there will be increased snowbird traffic this month, compounding the situation. Should you get into a car accident due to highway cleaning, please contact Lerner and Rowe immediately. Source: ADOT

    Wildfire North of Phoenix Continues to Grow

    Yavapai County (October 27, 2020) – The U.S. Forest Service has reported that the wildfire 80 miles north of Phoenix continues to spread. As of this writing, the fire has covered 13 square miles. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office sent evacuation orders for residents of Crown King, Minnehaha, and Horsethief Cabins.

    Although wildfire season typically runs from May to July, 2020’s unusual weather conditions have made fires more sporadic. Wildfires can cause significant property damage, as well as burn injuries and catastrophic injuries. Should your family suffer a wildfire-related injury, Lerner and Rowe is available to assist you 24/7. Source: AP

    Four Accused of Phoenix Adult-Care Abuse

    Phoenix (September 11, 2020) – Four medical professionals were taken into custody and are being accused of vulnerable adult abuse, as well as false reporting to authorities. The four claimed that a resident attacked them and another resident. Surveillance footage showed the staff forcing a resident to the floor and holding her down.

    Allowing adult-care facilities to take care of loved ones can be a difficult thing. Abusive, incompetent, and negligent staff should not be a problem, but that’s not always the case. If you suspect that a relative or friend is a victim of adult-care or nursing-home abuse, the attorneys at Lerner and Rowe are ready to assist you. Source: AP

    Extreme Heat Expected This Weekend

    Phoenix (August 14, 2020) – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning for the Phoenix area. Temperatures are expected to exceed 110F, with a high of 116F on Friday.

    In addition to a higher risk of heat-related injuries, summertime also typically has an increase in car accidents. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys urges you to stay indoors if possible. If you do go outside, do everything possible to stay cool and hydrated during this scorching heat. Should you suffer a heat-related injury due to another’s negligence, please contact us immediately. Source: NWS

    1 Dead, 1 Injured in Nighttime Boating Accident

    Lake Havasu (July 17, 2020) – One person died and another was critically injured in a nearly head-on collision at night between two motorboats on Lake Havasu. The crash remains under investigation, with alcohol and drugs as possible factors in the crash, along with high speed and poor lighting conditions.

    Boating at night can be dangerous due to limited visibility. Please exercise caution and limit your speed when boating during the evening. Should you or a family member get injured in a boating accident, please contact Lerner and Rowe’s Lake Havasu accidents lawyers as soon as possible. Our team of compassionate and capable legal professionals are available 24/7 to assist you. Source: AP

    MVD Customers Required to Wear Masks

    Statewide (June 25, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced that employees and customers of its Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) will be required to wear face coverings. The requirement was made due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the state. While a limited number of appointments are available at MVD offices, ADOT recommends using the agency’s online services when possible.

    ADOT Director John Halikowski said, “Our first priority is the safety and well-being of our customers and employees. COVID-19 is a significant health threat and we are committed to doing everything we can to protect Arizonans, especially those in vulnerable populations.” As of this writing, there have been 59,974 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 1,463 coronavirus-related deaths. Source: ADOT

    Arizona Reveals Five-Year Highway Plan

    Statewide (May 29, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has unveiled a tentative five-year plan for the state’s highways. The plan calls for an annual budget of $310-million for the preservation of Arizona bridges and roadways. Officials have asked for public comments on the plan, which should be finalized in June.

    Although Arizona is known for its scenic stretches of highways, they can be dangerous when not properly maintained. ADOT is actively seeking input from Arizonans to see how much of a priority highway safety and maintenance is to taxpayers. Should you and your family get into a car accident due to poorly maintained Arizona freeways, please contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys immediately. Source: ADOT

    Freeway Construction and Maintenance Increased

    Statewide (April 22, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced that it has expanded freeway construction and maintenance during the coronavirus outbreak. Since Governor Doug Ducey issued a stay-at-home order for the state, there are far fewer vehicles on the road. This makes it a great time for construction workers to expand and repair Arizona roads safely.

    While improved roads are always welcomed, added construction poses unique problems. Some drivers may get into a car accident because of additional debris from construction sites. Others may be tempted to drive at unsafe speeds on mostly empty highways, increasing their chances of harming themselves and construction workers. Lerner and Rowe would like to remind you to drive safely and reduce your speed while driving near construction. Source: ADOT

    Arizona MVD Pushes Online Services

    Statewide (March 19, 2020) – The Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) would like to remind all residents that more than 30 services can be handled at ServiceArizona.com. Online services include drivers license/ID card renewal, car registration renewal, insurance updates, vehicle reinstatement, voter registration, and more. Although MVD offices will remain open during the COVID-19 outbreak, with a limited number of customers allowed inside at a time, the agency strongly encourages the use of its online services.

    Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys hopes that you and your family stay well and healthy during this unprecedented time. If you have any questions about how the coronavirus outbreak is affecting your local community, please consult our COVID-19 safety recommendations. Source: MVD