Phoenix's unique climate presents distinct weather-related driving hazards that contribute to numerous accidents annually. While the Valley of the Sun experiences limited rainfall, sudden monsoon storms can create treacherous conditions, including flash floods, dust storms (haboobs), and slick roads from oil residue mixing with initial rainfall. Summer temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F can lead to tire blowouts, engine failures, and heat-related driver impairment. Even intense sun glare, particularly during rush hours, poses a significant visibility hazard. These weather conditions can complicate personal injury claims, as multiple factors may contribute to an accident – from reduced visibility during dust storms to hydroplaning on unexpectedly flooded streets. Understanding how weather conditions affected your accident is crucial for establishing liability and securing appropriate compensation for injuries, vehicle damage, and other losses.

Legal Rights and Considerations: Arizona follows a comparative negligence system (A.R.S. § 12-2505), meaning drivers can recover damages even if partially at fault for a weather-related accident. However, all drivers have a duty of care to adjust their driving behavior according to weather conditions. Insurance claims must typically be filed within the policy's specified timeframe, while personal injury lawsuits must be filed within Arizona's two-year statute of limitations (A.R.S. § 12-542). Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Weather-related accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, including personal injury protection, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Establishing causation between weather conditions and injuries requires thorough documentation of weather reports and road conditions at the time of the accident. A good Arizona car accident lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Click the links below to learn more about how an experienced accident lawyer helps with accident and injury claims of all types that are caused by weather conditions, including:

• Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyer;
• Phoenix truck accident lawyer;
• Phoenix Uber accident attorney;
• Phoenix brain injury lawyer;
• Phoenix spine injury attorney;
• Phoenix wrongful death claim lawyer.

Related Resources: Courts:

• Maricopa County Superior Court - Civil Division
• Phoenix Municipal Court
• Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One

Support Services:

• Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Emergency Road Service
• Maricopa County Victim Services Division
• Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona
• MADD Arizona State Office

Legal References:

• Arizona Revised Statutes Title 28 (Transportation)
• Arizona Department of Public Safety Weather Safety Guidelines
• Maricopa County Local Rules of Practice
• Arizona Clean Streets Alliance (road condition reporting)

Return to the Phoenix accident cause information page