Driving in Arizona has become more dangerous over recent years. The state has the 11th highest car fatalities in the US. Arizona has a vast network of road infrastructure that meets the needs of its growing population. With over 66,000 miles of public roads in the state, each individual travels an average of 36.4 miles a day.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, speeding is the most common cause of car collisions in the state. Most car accidents happen from October to December, with peak crashes on Saturdays.
Driving on Arizona roads can be dangerous due to factors such as distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving. There are some routes, roads, and highways that have recorded a high number of car crashes and fatalities in the state due to these factors. These roads include:
The I-10 is not only for Arizona residents but also for most drivers in the U.S. The interstate road is considered among the top five most dangerous roads for drivers. Between 2010-2016, 585 fatal crashes happened along the 2,460-mile stretch.
The State of Arizona has stringent protocols that individuals should observe in case of accidents. These protocols are in place to ensure no further injury or damage to property. Some of the steps individuals who have been involved in car accidents can follow include:
Additional accidents are likely to occur if a vehicle remains exposed after an initial collision, leading to more damage. Poor visibility and bad weather conditions also increase the risk of collisions, especially on high-traffic roads. Once an accident occurs, the best bet is to move off the road safely, if possible.
The second thing to do is activate the car’s hazard lights, indicating a problem to other drivers.
Danger flares, cones, or flags are a suitable way to alert other drivers of an accident up ahead, especially on frequently used roads. However, individuals should place cones and flags at a safe distance to give drivers enough time to respond appropriately.
Afterwards, drivers must call 911 and notify law enforcement about the accident. In case of injury, drivers should also request an emergency medical team to the scene. In Arizona, drivers are expected to report all road accidents regardless of severity.
After calling law enforcement, drivers should take photos of the accident to show proof of the cause of the crash. Additionally, drivers should record the names and addresses of other drivers, car occupants, and witnesses. Drivers should also include the names of the emergency personnel who arrive at the scene.
The driver should cooperate and provide honest information when speaking with law enforcement. Honesty is essential because law enforcement officers use the accounts to write a comprehensive crash report about the accident.
Though sharing insurance information after an accident in Arizona is not mandatory, it is a good practice. Exchanging insurance information makes filing an insurance claim more straightforward after leaving the scene of the accident. While sharing insurance information is not mandatory, Arizona requires cars to have insurance. If a vehicle is uninsured, the car’s registration and or driver’s license will be suspended.
Most insurance policies require drivers to report a claim after an accident. Insurance companies often contact the other drivers to record their statements about the accident. However, drivers are encouraged to have an attorney present before they give a comprehensive report to the other driver’s insurance representative.
After accidents, drivers should always keep records of the accident, including police statements, reports, and insurance information. These records can become helpful in the future if clarification is needed.
Every driver in Arizona should be familiar with the state’s driving laws to ensure they do not attract penalties and fines. Some of the fundamental laws and facts include:
Seatbelt LawAll front-seat occupants are required to wear safety belts while the car is in motion.
Drivers are responsible for the use of seatbelts by all passengers under the age of 16.
All children under eight must be properly secured in a booster or child safety seat.
Teen and Novice Drivers
The minimum age for driving is 15 years and six months; the driver requires six months of training. In addition, the drivers must be under supervision when driving during night hours.
Drivers aged 16 have a nighttime driving restriction from midnight to 5 a.m. For the first six months, they are restricted to driving one passenger over 18 years unless it is a family member.
Hands-Off LawUnless a car is parked or stopped, drivers are prohibited from talking, texting, or using an electronic handheld device while driving.
However, drivers can take calls using wireless devices like Bluetooth headphones or use their phones to report a crime during an emergency.
MotorcyclistsMotorcyclists should always wear a helmet when they are on the road.
Motorcyclists should always follow traffic flow and are prohibited from using pedestrian walks.
Lane Camping
The state restricts the use of the left lane on multi-lane highways only to overtaking or passing vehicles. Cars on the left should always be faster than those on the right.
Impaired DrivingDrivers aged 21 years or older stopped by law enforcement can receive a DUI charge if their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is above .08%.
Drivers under 21 years old should have a BAC of .00%.
The state prohibits driving under any use of THC and any drugs or their metabolites.
Vehicle
Registration and InsuranceAll vehicles in Arizona should have valid registration and minimum liability insurance coverage.
Besides the standard state driving laws, Arizona also has some unique and unusual traffic laws. The following are a few laws that first-time drivers and out-of-state visitors should look out for when they are driving through the state: