New Arizona Motorist Law being enforced in 2021!
THE FACTS
- State-wide ban on using your phone while driving was passed in April, 2019
- For the past 18 months, AZDPS officers have been educating drivers about the law
- An officer can pull you over if the cell phone is in your hand, on your shoulder or lap. 911 calls, Bluetooth calls and having a phone attached in a cradle is ok
- This is considered a Primary Offense, meaning an officer does not have to have any other reason to pull you over
Distracted driving legislation (2019):
House Bill 2318: Seeks to prohibit drivers from holding wireless communications devices. GPS OK. Stop light use OK. Fines: $75 to $149 (first offense); then $150 to $250. Enhanced penalties and liabilities for causing serious bodily harm or death. (Bill originally addressed powers of DOT director.) Approved by the House in a 59-14 vote of Feb. 14. Approved by the Senate in a 20-9 vote of April 9. Approved by the House in a 44-16 vote of April 18. Signed into law by the governor on April 22. (Campbell)