Falling Rocks
March 16, 2023 - US NettingFalling Rocks Prevention
Falling rocks are a serious hazard for drivers on highways and mountain roads, as was tragically demonstrated in October 2020 when a couple drove their car through Arizona's Interstate 17 only to have it crushed by falling rocks. The incident caused traffic delays and heavy jams since the highway is one of the few ways to get from Phoenix to Prescott. To prevent similar incidents in future, netting has been installed along road cuts through mountains on I-17. However, this incident highlights just how important it is for drivers to be aware of the dangers posed by rock falls and take steps to stay safe while driving. Find the article here: Arizona couple cheats death when falling rocks crush their car
Exploring Arizona's Red Rocks and Scenic Byways
Interstate 17 is a major highway through Arizona, taking drivers from Flagstaff to Phoenix. Along this route, travelers will be treated to some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. From red rocks that dot the landscape to mountains that cut through the land, this stretch of road offers something for everyone. Let's take a closer look at the sights and sounds along I-17.
The Red Rocks of Arizona
One of the most iconic sights along I-17 are the red rocks that dot the landscape. These rocks are made up of iron oxide deposits that have oxidized over time, giving them their distinctive rust-colored hue. The iron oxide deposits also give these rocks their durability—they can withstand extreme temperatures as well as impacts from wind and rain. To prevent these red rocks from scattering onto streets and highways, local authorities have constructed netting along certain stretches of I-17 to contain them.
Majestic Mountains
Another beautiful sight to behold along I-17 is majestic mountains cutting through the land like knife blades. The Bradshaw Mountains are one such example, stretching for miles and offering hikers and nature lovers plenty of opportunities for exploration. There are plenty of trails within these mountains where you can go on leisurely hikes or even spend an entire weekend camping out under a starry night sky!
Scenic Byways
Along I-17, you'll also find several scenic byways where you can pull over and take in all the breathtaking views offered by Arizona's countryside. Whether you decide to take a brief detour or drive all the way down one of these byways, you'll be treated to stunning vistas that you won't forget anytime soon! Plus, there are plenty of places where you can stop off for lunch or dinner if you need a break from your travels.
Driving Through the Mountains of Arizona on Interstate 17
For any driver in the Southwest, the experience of driving up Interstate 17 is one that won’t soon be forgotten. As you head north from Phoenix and through Flagstaff, you get to witness some of the most breathtaking views in Arizona. On this trek, you will encounter road cuts that stretch through mountains and valleys, accompanied by netting along the sides to prevent rockslides from falling onto the highway. Let’s take a deeper look at what causes these natural phenomena and why they can be so dangerous for drivers.
The Causes Behind Road Cuts and Rockslides
Road cuts are created when engineers must make space for roadways running through mountainous terrain. The rock that is removed to create these cuts is then piled along the edges, creating “road benches” or “road shoulders” as they are sometimes called. However, due to environmental and geological factors such as wind erosion and seismic activity, these piles of rock can become unstable over time; hence why it is so important to have netting in place along highways like I-17 going through these areas.
How Netting Helps Keep Drivers Safe
Netting helps keep drivers safe by preventing rocks from tumbling down onto the highway below. This netting is designed to absorb some of the energy generated by falling rocks before it reaches vehicles on the roadway below; which helps reduce their impact when they reach their destination. In addition, this netting also serves as a visual cue for drivers who may not be familiar with steep terrain—allowing them to slow down or otherwise adjust their speed accordingly when driving through an area with potential rockslide danger.
Interstate 17 Rocks: Understanding the Impact of Road Debris
Interstate 17 is one of the most heavily trafficked roads in the United States. As such, it is subject to a lot of wear and tear—including rocks and other debris that can cause serious damage to vehicles. In this post, we'll take a closer look at why road debris on I-17 is an issue and what drivers can do to stay safe while navigating the highway.
The Problem with Rocks on I-17
Rocks and other debris on I-17 pose two main problems. First, they can cause accidents when they become lodged in tires or cause vehicles to skid out of control. Second, they can damage vehicles if not removed quickly enough. As such, it's important for drivers to be aware of any rocks or other debris that may be on the road ahead. In addition to being hazardous to drivers, rocks on I-17 also create delays for semi trucks traveling along the highway. Semi trucks are especially vulnerable when driving over rocky patches due to their heavy load capacity, so they must move slowly and carefully when encountering any kind of road debris. This can lead to long delays that disrupt traffic flow and increase congestion along I-17.
What Drivers Can Do
Drivers should always be vigilant when driving along I-17, as rocks or other debris may appear at any time without warning due to heavy use of the highway by semi trucks or construction crews working on road maintenance projects. If you encounter an area where there are rocks on the road, reduce your speed immediately and exercise caution until you have safely passed through it. Additionally, make sure you check your tires regularly for signs of damage from road debris that may be lodged in them; if you find anything suspicious, stop at a service station as soon as possible for further inspection and repairs if necessary.
It is important for drivers to take caution when driving along I-17, as rocks and other debris can appear without warning due to heavy use of the highway. Drivers should reduce their speed immediately if they encounter an area with road debris and make sure to check their tires regularly for any signs of damage that may have been caused by these objects. Furthermore, netting installed along the sides of roads in mountainous terrain helps keep drivers safe from potential rockslides or falling rocks. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a smoother ride while traveling on Interstate 17.