Arizona permit drivers may no longer use their cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. Recent changes to the law also make it illegal to conceal license plates in any manner. The changes are an attempt to reduce distracted driving and make the roads safer for residents of the Grand Canyon State. Suffered injury or harm in any other way while driving in Arizona? You deserve compensation even if another person or institution is only partially at fault. Below, our Arizona traffic accident lawyers explain the recent changes to Arizona traffic laws.
Know the Law: Driving Permit Holders Cannot Use Wireless Communication Devices
The days of driving permit holders using cell phones or other wireless communication devices while behind the wheel are now in the past. Arizona lawmakers revised Statute 28-3154 with the addition of Section C that states those with driving permits are no longer allowed to operate a motor vehicle while using any sort of wireless communication device. The law also prohibits Arizona graduated license holders from using cell phones while operating motor vehicles for the first six months. The exception to this rule is an instance in which an emergency arises and it is impossible to stop the motor vehicle. Furthermore, if stopping the vehicle to use a wireless communication device during an emergency will create a safety hazard, the permit holder can use his or her wireless device. However, such instances are rare.
If a police officer observes a permittee:
- Using a cell phone or another wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle,
- Or has probable cause to believe the driver violated another motor vehicle law;
They can pull over that driver and issue a citation.
First-time violators of this law must pay a $75 fee. The second violation spurs a $100 fee and a license restriction for the next 60 days. If an officer catches the teen driver using a wireless communication device a third time in the 6-month period noted above, he or she will have to pay a fine of $100. They may also face license suspension for 30 days. The permittee can use wireless communication devices six month after receiving his or her graduated license or after turning 18.
Arizona Drivers can no Longer Conceal Their License Plates
Alterations to section D of Arizona’s Statute 28-2354 make it illegal to conceal an automobile’s license plate. Automobile owners cannot cover their license plates with any sort of substance or electronic device such as electrochromatic film. If any thing obscures the license plate’s numbers, letters, jurisdiction, or tabs from any angle, law enforcement will issue a citation. First-time violators of this new law face a fine of $30. A second violation within the next 12 months results in a $100 fine.
The new license plate concealment law is applicable to every type of vehicle. From everyday cars, trucks and SUVs to trailers, semi-trailers and motorcycles. The purpose of this law helps police officers quickly and easily identify the license plates of those in violation of traffic laws or other laws. The sad truth is some drivers conceal their license plates so police officers, vigilantes, and toll booth cameras can not identify their vehicle.
Are you a Victim of Another Driver’s Negligence? Contact Our Arizona Traffic Accident Lawyers
Arizona lawmakers passed the laws detailed above to make our streets and highways safer. Still, plenty of drivers will refuse to comply with the changes. If you suffer harm or vehicle damage in any way due to another driver’s lack of due care (negligence), contact our Arizona traffic accident lawyers. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys will fiercely advocate on your behalf for justice in the form of financial compensation. You can reach our office by dialing 844-977-1900. Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. But, we are willing and able to take your call 24/7. You can also interact with one of our friendly staff members through our online LiveChat feature.