Phoenix Accident Statistics

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

Construction Season Underway

Statewide (March 9, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation has reported that highway construction will increase for the next several months. While highway improvements are always welcomed, construction often brings an increase in accidents. One reason for the higher number of construction accidents is unfamiliarity with Arizona’s “Move Over Laws.”

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys hopes that the drivers in your family learn our state’s “Move Over Laws” and stay safe around construction sites. Unfortunately, some accidents could be caused by negligence by construction workers. If you suspect your accident was caused by negligence, contact us immediately and we’ll fight to win you maximum compensation. Source: ADOT

Be Cautious During Loop 202 Construction

Chandler (February 20, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADoT) has announced Loop 202 construction. The renovations will affect sections of Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) between Interstate 10 and Loop 101 (Price Freeway). This large project will include diamond grinding the Loop 202 to a smooth concrete finish.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys would like to remind you to drive cautiously in construction zones, as they introduce new road hazards. As the weather gets warmer, construction projects become more common, which can lead to an increase in car accidents. These accidents may be caused by poor road conditions, unfamiliarity with “move over” laws, and more. If you have gotten into a car wreck due to construction, Lerner and Rowe may be able to win you compensation. Contact us today for more information. Source: ADoT

Speeding Down Arizona Roadways

Statewide (January 27, 2020): We all know a common factor in many auto accidents: speeding. As it turns out, speeding is a huge problem in Arizona, and the speed feedback signs are helping to a minimal degree. What can be done to help? Well, some suggest that the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) expand the speed feedback sign program. While there are no plans of expansion as of yet, the department is open to the possibility, so long as positive results can be demonstrated through use of such signs.

Lerner and Rowe encourages you to stay safe on the roads and obey all traffic laws. If you’ve suffered a personal injury due to an auto accident that wasn’t your fault, contact Lerner and Rowe for a free consultation. Source: ABC 15

Rollover Collision Involved Teen Driver

Chandler, AZ (January 14, 2020): A teenage driver lost control of their vehicle before colliding with another vehicle and rolling over. Police continue to investigate, and so far, impairment does not appear to be a factor in the incident. Neither driver suffered any injuries, as they were assessed by firefighters at the scene, but speed and distraction could have contributed to the accident.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys urges you to stay safe on the road. Maintain vigilance, and obey all traffic laws and safe driving practices. If you do get in an accident while on the road, contact us for a free consultation. Source: AZ Family

Failure to Stop at Red Light Contributes to Crash

Phoenix, AZ (January 1, 2020): An 85-year-old man died in an intersection crash with another vehicle. The 19-year-old passenger and 28-year-old driver of the other vehicle were both uninjured, and impairment does not appear to be a factor in the collision. However, the 85-year-old did fail to stop at a red light, which likely contributed to the incident. This incident occurs in light of the Phoenix City Council’s decision to halt continued funding to red light traffic cameras at twelve intersections.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys urges you to drive safely on the road. Obey all traffic laws, and pay attention to red lights, pedestrians, and potential hazards. Source: ABC15

Multiple Fatal Crashes in Arizona

Statewide (December 17, 2019): Multiple vehicle crashes over the past few days have left people injured and worse, according to police officials. Causes of the accidents have not been officially released, as there are still ongoing investigations in place. Two people so far have unfortunately died from their injuries.

While the investigations are underway, it’s important to remember proper driving safety etiquette. Always obey all traffic laws, and maintain vigilance while on the road, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. If you suffer a personal injury on the road, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation.  Source: ABC15 News

Three Tornadoes Strike After Thanksgiving

Statewide (November 29, 2019): On the morning after Thanksgiving, three tornadoes swept through the state of Arizona, dishing out considerable damage. Poles and trees alike were uprooted in the wake of the twisters, some of which even had trunk diameters of up to three feet. Numerous trees fell onto homes, fences, and roads. One of the tornadoes was measured to be an EF1 tornado, meaning that moderate damage is expected, and the tornado’s winds are estimated to be between 86 and 110 mph.

The National Weather Service initiated tornado warnings for Arizonans, and while it’s all over now, it’s crucial to stay on the alert. While the tornadoes affected primarily the north Phoenix, Queen Creek, and Loop 202 areas, it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected.

Always keep emergency supplies on hand, and in catastrophic weather conditions, stay off the roads. Furthermore, the weather isn’t the only thing to worry about, as there is an increased likelihood that another driver may injure you when road conditions are poor. If you do suffer an injury due to another driver’s negligence, contact Lerner and Rowe for a free personal injury case consultation. Source: AZ Family

Rain on the Roads: Slippery Streets and Safety

Statewide (November 20, 2019): Arizona received heavy rains Wednesday morning that led to many streets and underpasses being flooded. The rains started at around 8:30 a.m. and have yet to die down. Some areas of the state have already received 2.5 inches of rain. Meteorologist Marvin Percha said, “The afternoon rush could be quite problematic with the combination of these showers and thunderstorms . . . and the strong winds.” Keep in mind, several safety issues come along with heavy rains, including slippery roads and low visibility.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys cautions you to not drive through flooded areas; turn around and don’t drown! If someone crashes into you during rainy weather, contact us for a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: KTAR News

Fire in Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ (October 29, 2019): A fire broke out on Tuesday night near 27th Avenue and Bethany Home Road. 911 received multiple reports of smoke in the area, and when firefighters finally arrived, extra crew was called in. In total, around 60 firefighters worked hard to put out the the monstrous flames that threatened to spread to surrounding buildings. The building that caught on fire was a mechanic shop, and investigators are still working to determine the cause of the vicious blaze.

Burn injuries are serious business. If you suspect a fire is brewing, immediately evacuate yourself and loved ones from the area. If you suffer a burn injury due to another person’s negligence, first seek medical attention right away. Afterwards, contact Lerner and Rowe for a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: AZ Family

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

Arizona Pedestrian Fatalities Decline, National Deaths Rise

Statewide (March 2, 2020) – Although Arizona usually has some of the highest instances of pedestrian accident fatalities in America, deaths were down 10% in 2019. Unfortunately, national figures are on the rise, with 6,590 pedestrian deaths in 2019–the highest total since 1988. The Governors Highway Safety Association  (GHSA) claims that the national rise was caused by a higher number of drowsy and distracted drivers, as well as an increase in sports utility vehicles (SUVs) on the road.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys urges all motorists and pedestrians to exercise proper safety. If everyone is more mindful of their surroundings and travels cautiously, the national numbers will decline. Unfortunately, some accidents are inevitable. If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident, Lerner and Rowe can help. Contact us immediately. Source: GHSA

Arizona Fatality Rate Among Worst in America

Statewide (February 3, 2020) – Arizona highways are some of the deadliest in the nation, according to the Reason Foundation. The organization’s annual highway report ranked Arizona highways 40th in overall fatality rate. Car accidents in Arizona tend to increase during summer months. Increased holiday travel, students off from school, and monsoon season lead to a higher number of traffic accidents.

Arizonans can work together to make the state’s highways safer for everyone, if motorists obey traffic rules and follow proper safety procedures. Should you and your family get into a freeway accident, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys immediately. Source: Reason

Traffic Fatality Update: Startling Developments

Statewide (November 15, 2019): From the beginning of 2019 to November 11, there have been a total of 825 traffic fatalities, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. Deaths are due to a variety of causes, including wrong-way driving, impaired driving, distracted driving, and more. However, efforts are ongoing to improve the quality of the roads and ensure optimal driver safety. Some examples include the implementation of new wrong way signs along with additional cameras at some traffic lights. Arizona has a long way to go, but hopefully, there won’t be many more traffic fatalities for the rest of the year.

If you’ve suffered an injury on Arizona’s roads, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. We’ll work with you on your personal injury case. Sources: ADOT and AZ Family

Arizona Fatalities Continue to Rise

Statewide (August 1, 2019): Near the beginning of June, Arizona had around 400 traffic-related fatalities. Now, that number has risen to 539 as of July 28. In other words, it took less than 60 days for Arizona to have over 130 more deaths added to the count. This is certainly grim news, but Director Alberto Gutier, head of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, plans to make changes. For example, Arizona is testing thermal wrong-way detection cameras as part of a pilot program. If successful, there could be more installed throughout the state.

Be sure to practice safe driving. Stay vigilant, and follow all traffic signs so you don’t drive the wrong way on a freeway.

Source: ADOT and CBS News

Accident Deaths In Triple Digits

Phoenix (June 3, 2019) – Unfortunately, Arizona traffic fatalities have already reached the triple digits since January of this year. Traffic fatalities continue to grow, and at present, there are over 400 deaths from traffic-related causes in Arizona alone. 2019 isn’t even halfway over, but hopefully, that tragic number doesn’t increase by much more. Source: AZDOT.gov

2019 Fatality Numbers

Phoenix (May 10, 2019) – Arizona’s accident fatalities are on the rise. From January 2019 to mid-March 2019, there were 80 deaths on Arizona’s roads. That’s 12 more than there were in 2018 around this same time. Authorities estimate that the increase in fatalities could be due to an increase in the amount of new drivers. With additional people on the road, and with many of them inexperienced, it’s important to stay mindful and vigilant at all times, especially when the weather changes. Source: 12 News

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

Get Your Real ID at Gold Rush Days

Wickenburg (February 13, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADoT) will have a 38-foot RV at the 72nd Annual Gold Rush Days festival on February 15. Arizonans will be able to apply for AZ Travel ID at the RV that complies with the Real ID Act of 2005. Real ID will be required to board commercial aircraft, enter restricted federal buildings, and enter military bases after October 1, 2020.

It’s fantastic that ADoT is making AZ Travel ID easy to obtain while you celebrate Wickenburg’s rich gold mining and ranching history at Gold Rush Days. Please be careful during the parade and rodeo activities, as the chances of a slip-and-fall accident are higher than normal. Should you or a loved one suffer a personal injury at Gold Rush Days, contact us for immediate assistance. Source: ADoT

Deadly Hit and Run in Arizona

Maricopa, AZ (January 23, 2020): A 20-year-old man was struck and killed in a hit-and-run accident early Thursday morning. According to official reports, the man was in the passenger seat as his father was driving the man to work. The two got into an argument, and the 20-year-old jumped out of the car. As he did so, another vehicle struck and killed him before leaving the scene. An investigation is currently ongoing.

When you’re on the road, always pay attention, and don’t act impulsively. Obey all traffic laws, and always wear your seat belt. Source: AZ Family

2019 Tornado Havoc

Phoenix, AZ (January 8, 2020): Last year, there were a total of seven tornadoes in the greater Phoenix area, placing 2019 in second place for the most tornadoes on record in any given year. The only other year with more tornadoes is 1972, with a total of ten tornadoes on record.

It goes without saying (hopefully) that being outdoors when a tornado strikes can be a dangerous endeavor. If possible, stay indoors and try to stay off the roads. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys hopes you stay safe during 2020. Source: ABC 15

Fatal Wrong-way Collision with Light Rail

Phoenix, AZ (December 22, 2019): A thirty-year-old woman collided with a light rail after having driven the wrong way on Washington St. Sunday morning. The collision was so serious that the woman died at the scene of the accident, and the light rail was derailed off its tracks. Police are still investigating the cause of the accident, and it’s not certain if impairment was a factor. However, speed may be a likely culprit in the crash. No passengers on the light rail were harmed, and the light rail is now up and running again, albeit with a 17-minute delay.

If you or someone you know suffer a personal injury while in a vehicle or light rail, don’t hesitate to call Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We’ll give you a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: AZ Family

Surprising Storms Sweep the Streets

Statewide (Monday, December 9, 2019): Unexpected stormy weather blanketed Arizona streets early Monday afternoon. To begin, a storm cell dumped heavy rain and hail over highways and streets. But this was different from usual Arizona weather. The hail reached the size of quarters, according to the National Weather Service, and there was so much of it that the roads looked like there was snow on them. In Glendale, a gas station roof collapsed, and with temperatures in the 60s, the hail will melt and flood the streets even more. In fact, certain areas of Arizona have already received at least ¾ in. of rain.

If you’re driving on slippery roads, take it slow, and make sure your windshield wipers are operational. If you come across flooded roads, turn around, and don’t drown! Keep yourself and others on the road safe by practicing safe driving and preparing for inclement weather conditions. Source: AZ Family

Thanksgiving Forecast: Snow on the Streets

Statewide (November 25, 2019): The weather on the days leading up to Thanksgiving is forecast to be quite hazardous. Parts of northern Arizona are expected to see heavy snow—up to two feet, in fact. The snowfall will reach its apex during Thanksgiving afternoon, so be sure to complete your traveling ahead of time. Additionally, make sure your car is in optimal condition, and pack appropriate emergency gear in case something goes wrong.

If you must drive in the snow, be alert for dangerous drivers on the road. Further, if you or someone you know suffered a traffic injury while driving in the snow because of another’s negligence, contact Lerner and Rowe for a free consultation regarding your personal injury case. Source: AZ Central

A Fatal Flaw: Uber Error and a Pedestrian Death

Phoenix, AZ (November 6, 2019): Last year, a Tempe woman was struck and killed by an autonomous Uber vehicle. Now, new reports reveal that a crucial software error may have contributed to the accident. Authorities have found that the Uber vehicle could not detect pedestrians if they were outside the boundaries of a crosswalk. This sheds light on the situation, as the Tempe woman was struck while jaywalking at night.

However, the self-driving Uber vehicle did recognize her about six seconds before hitting her. The vehicle first classified her as a vehicle moving in the opposite direction and later as a stationary bicycle. Some authorities believe this error may have contributed to the accident while others feel that the situation was unavoidable.

If you or someone you know suffer from an autonomous vehicle injury, contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Source: AZ Family

Near-Drowning Incident Concerns Community

Mesa, AZ (October 19, 2019): Police responded to a drowning call on Saturday evening and found a two-year-old child in an ungated pond area. Now, neighbors are voicing their concerns. One mother said, “The pool is even gated off, so my concern is why aren’t the ponds gated off?” So far, there aren’t any further updates on the child’s condition, but there is growing concern for the safety of children near bodies of water, leading to potential premises liability issues.

If you have a young child, always stay vigilant and keep your eye on them. Don’t let them near any body of water unsupervised. Also, make sure you and your children know how to swim, and always inspect any bodies of water before plunging in. Source: FOX 10 News