ARS 28-701: Consequences of Speeding Under Arizona Traffic Laws
Speeding is a serious offense in Arizona and carries with it significant consequences that can affect your driving record, financial stability, and even your freedom. At Tamou Law Group PLLC, we understand how overwhelming it can be to face traffic citations, and we’re here to help. This blog will discuss ARS 28-701 and related statutes, outlining the legal ramifications of speeding in Arizona and how they might impact you.
Understanding ARS 28-701
ARS 28-701 is the Arizona statute that defines speeding and sets the framework for the penalties associated with this violation. According to this law, driving at a speed exceeding the reasonable and prudent standard under the current conditions is considered unlawful. The statute emphasizes that the driver must control the speed of the vehicle as necessary to avoid colliding with any person, vehicle, or other conveyance on or entering the highway in compliance with legal requirements and the duty of all persons to use due care.
Categories of Speeding Violations
Speeding violations under ARS 28-701 can be categorized into two main types:
- Reasonable and Prudent Speed Violations (ARS 28-701A): This violation occurs when a driver exceeds what is considered “reasonable and prudent” under specific conditions such as weather, traffic, and road characteristics. This is generally considered a civil traffic offense and is subject to fines and points on your driving record.
- Excessive Speeding (ARS 28-701.02): Also known as criminal speeding, this is a more severe offense. It occurs if you exceed 35 mph approaching a school crossing, 45 mph in a business or residential district, or 85 mph in other locations. Criminal speeding is a class 3 misdemeanor and can result in higher fines, court appearances, and even jail time.
Penalties for Speeding in Arizona
The penalties for speeding in Arizona depend on the nature and severity of the offense:
- Civil Penalties: For basic speeding violations, penalties usually include a fine and points added to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to driver’s license suspension.
- Criminal Penalties: For criminal speeding, you might face fines exceeding $500, mandatory driving school, and up to 30 days in jail. A criminal record can also impact your current and future employment opportunities.
Impact on Insurance Rates
Beyond legal penalties, speeding tickets can significantly increase your auto insurance premiums. Insurers view speeding drivers as higher risk, and this often results in increased insurance costs over several years, which can financially strain many drivers.
How Tamou Law Group PLLC Can Help
Facing a speeding ticket in Arizona, especially one that could lead to criminal charges, is a serious situation. Tamou Law Group PLLC has extensive experience handling both civil and criminal speeding cases. Our legal team is equipped to provide you with the guidance and representation you need to navigate the complexities of Arizona traffic law.
Key Considerations
It’s important to consider that each speeding case is unique. The context of the violation, your driving history, and the specific details of the incident all play a crucial role in determining the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney can help assess your situation, represent you in court, and possibly reduce the penalties or even get the charges dismissed.
Conclusion
Speeding can lead to severe consequences under Arizona law. If you find yourself facing a speeding ticket, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the potential impacts on your life. Don’t face this challenge alone. Contact Tamou Law Group PLLC at 623-321-4699 to discuss your case with a skilled attorney who can provide you with the best possible defense and work towards a favorable outcome.
