Las Vegas residents are no strangers to extreme temperatures or extreme weather, for that matter. Over the summer, windy weather in Nevada caused some issues including downed power lines and significant dust. The high wind velocities brought significant amounts of dust into many areas of the state.
What to Do in a Dust Storm
While dust may not seem like much of a nuisance, it can be dangerous if you are caught out on the road during a dust storm. If you are like most people, you likely do not know how to drive during this type of extreme weather. Below are some tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road during a dust storm:
Keep Calm. Being caught in a Las Vegas dust storm can be a stressful experience, particularly if you are in a vehicle when it happens. Not surprisingly, excessive dust and moving cars are not a good combination. Flying debris may also be added, which can result in damage to windshields, windows, and other parts of the vehicle. The best thing to do is to remain calm and try to keep control of the car. You can stay calm by:
- Taking a deep breath;
- Keeping your hands off the wheel;
- Staying focused on the road.
Remain alert. Extreme weather is not the time to be distracted. This means no texting, no phone calls, no thoughts or conversations about other things. Instead, keep your mind, eyes, and hands completely focused on the road. It is critical to remain alert for changes in road conditions, weather issues, and other drivers. Moreover, dust storms can increase debris on the roadway and knock down power lines.
Slow down. If you are caught in a dust storm, check traffic around your vehicle right away. Be sure to look to the front, back, and each side of your car. After you have checked the traffic around you, start to slow down. Not only is driving too fast in extreme weather dangerous, it is also against the law. Specifically, Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 484B.600(1)(a) states, “Driving at a rate of speed that is not proper or reasonable, based on the traffic, the roadway, weather, and other conditions” is unlawful.
Stay Visible. Because dust can make visibility difficult on Nevada roadways, the lack of visibility affects all drivers on the road. In order to help with visibility, you should turn on your headlights or your flashers.
Get Off the Roadway. The safest place to be in a dust storm is off the road. If you can, do not drive when there is inclement weather on the horizon. If you are caught on the road during a dust storm, try to get off as soon as possible. When you do drive off the road, be mindful of other cars and park in a safe place out of the way of oncoming traffic.
Contact Our Nevada Attorneys
It is unfortunate, but not everyone makes safety a priority when out on Nevada roadways. If you have been hurt in a Las Vegas dust storm, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at H&P Law. Our dedicated team of lawyers will help fight for the monetary compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn about how we can help.
