Every driver knows that owning and driving a vehicle includes some degree of risk. However, these risks can vary significantly from state to state and even city to city. Here in the Mesa-Phoenix area, drivers face the same hazards that other drivers do, as well as some unique hazards that are specific to our geographic area. Continue reading to learn about some of the hazards drivers face here in Mesa and what you can do to minimize your risk.
Extreme Heat
Mesa, Arizona isn’t exactly an arctic climate. Average summer temperatures top out well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and in extreme cases, temperatures have hit over 120 degrees. As you likely already know, extreme heat takes its toll on vehicles. As the temperature rises, your risk of a tire blowout also increase. This is because high road temperatures combined with an underinflated tire can dramatically increase the risk of tire failure. If you are traveling at high speeds along I-10, you can see how quickly this could lead to a serious car accident. Be sure to check your tire pressure and have your tires rotated on a regular basis.
Vehicle Theft
Believe it or not, vehicle theft rates are extremely high in Arizona – especially the Phoenix and Mesa area. According to the Insurance Information Institute and the U.S. Department of Justice, Arizona ranks 8th in the nation for vehicle theft. The City of Mesa has recommended that drivers take precautions and implement theft deterrents.
Examples of theft deterrents include the use of theft deterrent decals, car alarms, electronic tracking devices, steering wheel locks, electronic keys, and kill switches. You can also have your vehicle’s VIN etched into the glass. Be sure to talk to your agent about including comprehensive protection on your car insurance policy just in case you find yourself the victim of a car theft.
Dust Storms
The Mesa area is subject to one driving risk that few other metro areas are accustomed to in our country – dust storms. They may sound harmless enough, but any driver who has found themselves blindsided by one knows they can be very dangerous.
Dust storms typically strike suddenly and with little warning. They can instantly reduce visibility to nearly zero, causing collisions and pile-ups on the highway. In just a few minutes, a Mesa dust storm can wreak havoc on area roadways and cause serious hazards for motorists. If possible, never enter a dust storm in your vehicle. Pull safely off to the side of the road, or reduce your speed and turn your lights one until you can find a place to pull over. Use the white line on the road as a guide if necessary. Most importantly, never stop in the middle of the road during a dust storm. Always find a shoulder or parking lot to pull into instead.
Minimize Your Risk
You may not be able to control the weather or scare away a thief, but you can take steps to protect yourself. At Harnish Insurance Group, we know what it’s like to drive and own a vehicle in Mesa. Because of this, we can help you better understand your risks and ensure you have access to the protection you need to protect yourself from financial disaster in the event of an accident or theft. Call us today to request your very own Mesa car insurance quote. We look forward to serving you soon.
