Arizona DUI Laws: Penalties, Limits, and What You Need to Know
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Arizona DUI laws are designed for safety, so they can be strict and severe — just one reason it is so important to understand the consequences of driving under the influence in Arizona. This comprehensive guide will share the latest information on DUI laws in Arizona as well as legal limits for operating a motor vehicle, restricted licenses, license suspensions, criminal charges, how a DUI can affect your insurance rates and driving privileges, and other potential DUI-related penalties.
Arizona DUI Laws: BAC Limits for Different Drivers
Arizona state DUI laws include different blood alcohol content (BAC) limits for different drivers. For instance:
- If you are aged 21 and up, you can be charged with a DUI for a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or higher.
- If you are a commercial driver, that number drops to a BAC of .4% and above
- If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to have any alcohol in your system while driving. If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can face up to 180 days in jail, steep fines, license suspension, and more.
Penalties for a First DUI Offense in Arizona
The penalties for drunk driving or driving under the influence of illegal drugs can be severe, even for a first offense. They continue to increase for subsequent offenses.
For a first DUI offense in Arizona, you can receive jail time ranging from 24 hours to 10 days and will be fined at least $250. You will be required to undergo alcohol screening or education and install an interlock ignition device in your car to ensure that you don't drive under the influence again. You may also be ordered to perform community service. Your license can be suspended from 90 days to one year.
Repeat Offenses: What Happens After a Second or Third DUI
The consequences are even more serious for second and third DUI offenses.
Here are the penalties for a second DUI:
- You will face jail time of 30 to 90 days.
- You will pay a minimum of $500 as a fine.
- Your driver's license will be suspended for one year.
- You will be required to install an interlock ignition device in your car.
For a third DUI:
- You will face a minimum of four months of jail time.
- Fines start at $750.
- Your driver's license will be suspended for one year.
- You will be required to install an interlock ignition device.
Ignition Interlock Devices: How They Work and When They Are Required
An ignition interlock device is now a mandatory penalty following Arizona DUI laws' zero-tolerance policy.
These in-car breathalyzing tools are wired to your car's ignition, and they feature a camera and GPS. Following a DUI in Arizona, you will be required to exhale into the ignition interlock device before you can start your car. If any alcohol is detected above .02, then your car will not start. The device will also require random samples when your car is running and will continue to warn you if you do not provide an immediate sample.
Administrative Consequences of a DUI: License Suspension and Reinstatement
Even first-time DUI offenders in Arizona will face a driver's license suspension.
If your license has been suspended, you will need to first complete the suspension period. Then, you can follow these steps to get your license reinstated:
- Pay all related fines.
- Complete all court orders related to your DUI, such as alcohol education and treatment, as well as an alcohol screening.
- Provide proof of insurance, such as SR-22 insurance, which provides proof of future financial responsibility.
- Complete an investigation packet.
- Apply for reinstatement with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).
How a DUI Affects Your Car Insurance in Arizona
No matter where you live, a DUI will impact your auto insurance premiums. A DUI in Arizona can increase your car insurance rates by as much as 77%.
You may also want to look into liability insurance in Arizona to protect yourself.
How to Fight a DUI Charge in Arizona: Legal Options and Resources
If you feel your DUI was unfair or the process was flawed, you can choose to fight the charges.
Your legal options include:
- Challenge the traffic stop. If you think the officer did not have reasonable suspicion for the stop or pulled you over based on a bias, you can challenge this in court.
- Question the sobriety tests. If you think field sobriety tests or breathalyzers were administered or interpreted improperly or if you have a medical condition that may have influenced these results, you can also challenge this.
- Raise questions about procedural issues. If you were taken into custody but weren't read your Miranda rights, this can provide fodder for challenging the conviction.
If you have questions or concerns about anything related to your arrest, you should contact an Arizona attorney who specializes in DUI cases.
Stay Safe and Insured: Protect Yourself from DUI Consequences
Arizona car insurance is designed to support safe driving practices. If you are looking for more affordable car insurance, EverQuote can provide options after a DUI. Visit EverQuote today to compare car insurance quotes and find the best option for your driving needs.