Phoenix’s population is approximately 1.5 million people, the metropolitan area has approximately 4 million people, and the Valley has a growing freeway system.
Drivers of cars in the Phoenix metropolitan area must obey the traffic laws, and share the roadways with other cars, motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians, trucks, buses, and the light rail.
Motorists must use caution and look out for bicyclists, motorcyclists, who may be difficult to see. Bicyclists and motorcyclists are often victims of a car making a left, at an intersection, and the driver not paying attention.
Car drivers have to also share the road with large trucks, it’s necessary to safely change lanes in front of a truck, it takes them longer than cars to stop. Trucks also have blind spots. Trucks make wide right turns, and leave an open space to the right, just before the turn.
Drivers must also pay attention to pedestrians and bicyclists. Phoenix is one of the most dangerous cities in the United States for pedestrians. Every year the Phoenix Fire Departments responds to hundreds of emergencies involving pedestrians, adults and children. I have represented numerous bicyclists, pedestrians, in crosswalks, who were doing nothing wrong, who were hit by distracted or impaired drivers.
Drivers must also drive carefully near work and school zones. When approaching a school bus that is dropping off or picking up passengers a driver must come to a complete stop before reaching the bus.
Simply put, defensive driving, being prepared to react and avoiding distractions while driving, help to prevent avoidable collisions, and injuries to persons and drivers, sharing Arizona streets and highways.