Added on July 12, 2019  The News Wheel   , , ,
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One Driver’s Cactus Collision…and a Refresher on Desert Driving Safety Tips

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On Wednesday, one driver in Tucson, Arizona crashed into a saguaro cactus while crossing a median. Per Autoblog, a large portion of the cactus went through the windshield, while the rest extended over the hood of the car. Thankfully, the driver escaped unharmed, though local deputies did detain him for imparied driving. 

This unfortunate event is the perfect time to review safey driving tips for desert conditions. Whether you live near a desert region or are planning to road trip to one, implement these strategies when navigating this unique and challenging setting. 

How to drive safely in the desert

A bit of prep before your desert excursion and some practical tips during your drive will go a long way in enhancing the safety of your trip. 

Before the drive

  • Pack plenty of bottled water.
  • Pack a cellphone and cellphone charger.
  • Check your vehicle’s battery.
  • Prep your vehicle’s cooling system.
  • Fill up the gas tank.
  • Pack a spare tire.

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Photo: Pixabay

During the drive

  •  Watch out for “bleeding” tar on the road. If you’re not familiar with desert driving, this term simply refers to patches of the road pavement that liquefy in the heat. This can result in dark, slippery patches on the road. To drive over these patches safely, keep your vehicle traveling at a steady speed and avoid sudden braking or steering. 
  • Monitor the condition of your tires. Keep an eye on your tires when driving in desert conditions. It’s common for the extreme heat to cause overheating, which can result in premature cracks in the rubber.
  • Beware of dust storms. Dust storms can create 3,000-foot-tall dust walls which can severely impede visibility and damage your windshield. If you encounter a dust storm while driving, pull off to the roadside, engage the parking brake and wait it out. If you’re unable to pul over, drive slowly and turn your lights on, while using the center line on the road to guide you.
  • Watch out for rainstorms. These pop-up storms can create monsoon-like conditions and slick roads. The precipitation typically causes flooded low spots on the road and in valleys. Avoid crossing flooded areas in your vehicle, since it can sweep your vehicle away. 

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News Sources: Autoblog, SafeBee.com