12 Days of Christmas: Highway debris edition
12 Days of Christmas: Highway debris edition
Highway debris is a hazard to all drivers who use Arizona highways. From ladders to patio furniture, couches to yard equipment, ADOT crews have picked up all sorts of personal belongings that unintentionally end up on the state highway system.
We wanted to show a sampling of the types of debris ADOT crews collect throughout the year set to the popular carol “12 Days of Christmas.” (And, yes, technically speaking the 12 Days of Christmas doesn’t begin until Dec. 25 — but securing your load is always important, no matter the season.)
Beyond damaging vehicles, debris left on the roadway can cause crashes. It can also put law enforcement and ADOT crews at risk when they’re trying to remove these items from busy freeways. In 2022, there were 1,100 debris-related crashes across Arizona and nine deaths.
Remember: If you see large debris in the middle of the highway, treat it like the emergency it is and call 911. It is the best way to ensure the debris will be removed as quickly and safely as possible. And before you head out, make sure to:
- Tie down loads: Use tie downs, netting, bungee cords, ropes or straps when hauling items.
- Cover loads: Use a tarp to ensure that nothing will fly out of the truck bed or trailer.
- Don’t overload vehicles.
- Ask yourself: Is there any chance of debris falling or blowing out of my vehicle? Would I feel safe if I were driving behind my vehicle?
May your days be merry and bright — and stay tuned for new holiday-themed traffic safety messages that will display on ADOT’s overhead signs next week.