How can you drive safely in Flagstaff? Safer roads for everyone starts with understanding the most common crash factors and how to address them. In Greater Flagstaff, a mix of daily commuters, tourists, and students presents specific road safety challenges. MetroPlan’s Safer Journeys, Together campaign is dedicated to reducing crashes through education, Flagstaff infrastructure improvements, and community involvement. By identifying key crash factors and adopting safer behaviors, we can work together to make Flagstaff’s roads safer for everyone.
Understanding Greater Flagstaff’s Crash Trends
Crash data reveals that the most common crash types in Northern Arizona include:
Speeding and aggressive driving
Impaired driving
Distracted driving
Nighttime walking and biking
Bicycle and pedestrian crashes
Greater Flagstaff faces unique road safety challenges due to its diverse traffic mix. This diverse traffic creates higher risks at intersections and during peak travel times. Additionally, the region’s varied terrain and winter weather conditions add another layer of complexity to road safety.
A significant issue in Flagstaff is the high rate of pedestrian and bicyclist crashes, particularly at intersections where visibility and driver awareness play crucial roles. Infrastructure improvements, such as clearer road markings and pedestrian-focused traffic signals, are being explored to mitigate these risks.
Many are aware of the dangers of impaired driving and distracted driving, but some aspects of these risks are less commonly discussed. Did you know that using a hands-free device does not eliminate driver distraction? According to the National Transportation Safety Board, hands-free is not risk-free. Conversations using Bluetooth or other hands-free technology still cause cognitive distraction, meaning that even though a driver’s hands are on the wheel, their mind is not fully focused on the road. Multitasking is a myth—humans can only focus cognitive attention on one task at a time. So while hands-free technology may be legal, it’s still important to make driving your sole focus.
Behavioral Crash Factors
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Did you know? Studies show that speeding only saves a driver a few minutes at best, yet it significantly increases the risk and severity of a crash. Impatience is something we all struggle with, especially when we’re late or stuck in traffic, but slowing down makes a big difference in road safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding is a major factor in one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities.
How to Avoid: Follow posted speed limits, especially in high-traffic areas or near schools. Plan ahead to allow for extra travel time, so you don’t feel rushed. If you're feeling impatient, try listening to a podcast or an audiobook to make traffic delays more enjoyable..
Distracted Driving
Did you know? There is a potential crash in every minor distraction. Hands-free does not mean distraction-free. A conversation on Bluetooth or through voice commands still takes mental focus away from driving. Studies show that drivers who use hands-free technology can experience “inattention blindness,” meaning they may look at the road but not actually see what is happening around them. Distractions also include texting, eating, and other activities that take your focus off the road, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
How to Avoid: Keep conversations short and avoid mentally demanding discussions while driving. If possible, wait to take calls until you reach your destination. Using vehicle features like Do Not Disturb mode can help eliminate unnecessary distractions.
Nighttime Driving
Did you know? Visibility is significantly reduced at night, and many pedestrian and cyclist crashes happen after dark.
How to Stay Safe: Walkers and bikers should wear reflective clothing and use designated crossings and bike lanes. Drivers should remain extra vigilant, especially in low-light conditions.
Operational Crash Factors and How to Avoid Them
Behavioral factors influence road safety in many ways. Understanding them can help reduce accidents and improve travel for everyone. Factors like speeding, distracted driving, and pedestrian awareness play a role in how smoothly traffic flows through Flagstaff. We can all contribute to a safer and more efficient transportation network by staying informed and practicing safe habits. The following sections highlight common behavioral crash factors and provide practical strategies to help make our community roads safer.
Intersection Crashes
Did you know? Intersections are one of the most high-risk areas for crashes due to multiple traffic flows and pedestrian activity.
How to Avoid: Use turn signals, yield to pedestrians, and make complete stops at stop signs and red lights. Always scan for cyclists and pedestrians before proceeding.
Lane Departures
Did you know? Drifting out of a lane can be caused by distraction, fatigue, or poor road conditions.
How to Avoid: Stay alert, avoid distractions, and ensure vehicle maintenance, particularly checking tire condition. If you feel drowsy, take a break rather than trying to push through fatigue.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Crashes
Did you know? Bicycle crashes are about equally caused by both drivers and bicyclists. Instead of assigning blame, we can all focus on coexisting safely on the roads.
How to Avoid: Drivers should check blind spots, yield at crosswalks, and avoid sudden turns. Cyclists and pedestrians should follow traffic signals, wear reflective gear, and stay aware of their surroundings. Bicyclists are considered the same as vehicles and should travel in the same direction as traffic. They must follow the same rules as cars, including stopping at stop signs and red lights, and signaling before changing lanes.
According to ARS statute 28-812, 'A person riding a bicycle on a roadway or a shoulder adjoining a roadway is granted all the rights and is subject to all the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle.'
Additionally, ARS statute 28-815 states that 'a person riding a bicycle on a roadway shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except: if passing or overtaking another vehicle traveling in the same direction, preparing to turn left, or avoiding conditions such as parked vehicles, moving objects, or other hazards.' This means bicyclists do NOT have to remain in the bike lane at all times.
Shared Lanes – What You Need to Know
According to the USDOT, shared lane markings (also known as “sharrows”) indicate that motorists and bicyclists must share the roadway. These markings are especially helpful in areas where dedicated bike lanes are not available. They serve as a reminder for drivers to expect cyclists on the road and encourage safe coexistence.
Community-Wide Solutions for Safer Roads
Creating a safer Flagstaff requires a combination of education, infrastructure, and community cooperation. MetroPlan is dedicated to fostering safer roadways through targeted initiatives that address the unique challenges of the region.
MetroPlan is actively working to make Flagstaff’s roads safer through:
Educational campaigns focusing on speeding and distracted driving.
Infrastructure upgrades such as roundabouts and protected intersections.
Community initiatives like the I Yield to Safety campaign, encouraging responsible road-sharing behaviors.
Collaboration with local law enforcement to enhance enforcement of road safety laws and discourage reckless driving behaviors.
Community participation in road safety initiatives, such as MetroPlan’s I Yield to Safety campaign, helps foster a culture of shared responsibility and safer roadways. This will help to create safer roadways and a safer Flagstaff.
How to Stay Safe on Flagstaff Area Roads
Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists all share Flagstaff’s roads, making safety a collective effort. Understanding how to navigate high-traffic areas, intersections, and seasonal driving conditions can help prevent accidents and improve road safety for everyone. Below are some tips to ensure safer travel across Flagstaff’s diverse transportation landscape.
Pedestrian & Cyclist Safety Tips
Pedestrian and bike safety in Flagstaff relies heavily on being aware and following the rules of the road. It's important to know the best practices for coexisting with vehicles on the road. Here are some cyclist and pedestrian safety tips:
Stay alert – don’t assume vehicles will stop.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure they see you.
Use designated crosswalks and bike lanes for increased safety.
Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
Avoid distractions like texting or listening to loud music while walking or biking.
Always walk facing traffic if there is no sidewalk available.
Cyclists should follow traffic laws, signal turns, and ride in the direction of traffic.
Equip bicycles with front and rear lights to increase visibility.
Driving Safely in High-Traffic Areas
What are the most dangerous roads in Flagstaff? Flagstaff experiences heavy congestion, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity, such as near NAU and downtown. Intersections along Milton Road and Butler Avenue have high accident rates due to congestion and multiple transportation modes sharing the road.
Here are some ways you can navigate driving safely in these high-traffic a
Be patient and anticipate sudden stops in congested areas.
Keep a safe following distance to allow for unexpected braking.
Use your turn signals early to communicate intentions with other drivers.
Yield at pedestrian crossings – I Yield to Safety campaign.
Understand roundabouts – learn how to enter and exit safely. For guidance on roundabout navigation, including right-of-way rules and best practices, visit the Federal Highway Administration.
Watch for cyclists in designated lanes.
Avoid distractions like adjusting the radio or GPS while in heavy traffic.
Winter & Nighttime Driving Safety
Winter and nighttime driving conditions in Flagstaff present significant challenges, with reduced visibility, icy roads, and distracted driving being among the most common crash factors. Ensuring safe driving habits during these times can help prevent accidents and improve road safety for everyone.
Slow down in icy conditions – even slight speed reductions can prevent crashes.
Use proper lighting and clear off windshields for visibility.
Avoid distractions – phone use significantly increases accident risk.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, flashlight, and extra windshield washer fluid.
Increase following distance to allow for unexpected stops on slippery roads.
Use low-beam headlights in foggy or snowy conditions to improve visibility.
Check tire pressure and tread depth regularly to ensure maximum traction in winter weather.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed: Join the Movement for a Safer Greater Flagstaff
Safety is a shared responsibility – staying alert, following road rules, and respecting all road users can help prevent accidents and create safer streets in Greater Flagstaff. MetroPlan is committed to enhancing safety through infrastructure improvements and educational initiatives aimed at promoting responsible travel behavior.
To stay informed and engaged, sign up for MetroPlan’s newsletter for updates on road improvements and safety initiatives. Follow MetroPlan on social media for real-time safety tips and community updates. Together, we can make Flagstaff’s roads safer for everyone.
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