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Driving in Arizona

Driving in Arizona is no different than driving in any other state. Be sure to wear your seatbelt and follow the traffic signs. To ensure your safety, be aware of the following information:

511 Traveler Information Service

Traveling in Arizona is as easy as calling 5-1-1! Get the latest information on: 

• Road conditions 
• Public transit services 
• Major airports 
• Tourism, including State and National Park information 
• Weather 

This free service is offered 24/7 by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), who remind you to buckle up and drive safely. Within Arizona, dial 511. Outside Arizona, dial direct (602) 523-0244, or toll-free (888) 411-ROAD (7623). Thanks to a partnership between ADOT, the Arizona Office of Tourism, the U.S. Park Service, and Arizona State Parks, the 5-1-1 system includes information on 52 state and national parks in the Grand Canyon state.

For more information, visit the AZ 511 website. 

Driving in Dust Storms & Monsoon Season

Dust storms are caused by high winds sweeping across fields or dry desert terrain, sometimes blowing dust onto nearby highways. Although usually brief, dust storms should be taken seriously because they can quickly decrease visibility. While most people associate Arizona with the desert, the state also experiences occasional heavy rainstorms, particularly during the summer monsoon season.

If you find yourself driving during a dust or monsoon storm, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Turn on your headlights and slow down!
• If you can safely avoid it, do not enter a dust storm.
• If your visibility is impeded by heavy rain or dust, slowly pull off to the side of the road as far to the right as possible. Turn off the car and headlights, set the parking brake and keep your foot off the brake pedal.
• Pay attention to hazard signs and roadblocks. If you see a sign that says "Do Not Cross When Flooded," take it seriously and find another way.

• Don’t cross rain-swollen washes. You could get caught in a flash flood.

For More Information

Learn more about safe driving in Arizona at these sites:

• Arizona Department of Public Safety 
• Arizona Department of Transportation
• City of Phoenix
• Arizona Department of Transportation - Highway Hawk