If you are driver in Arizona, the rules and regulations concerning auto insurance, driving laws and licensing can sometimes seem incomprehensible. Each state sets its own parameters, and Arizona has one of the more complex systems out there. But Arizona drivers need not fret: with a little bit of effort, anyone can decipher the system and become and informed motorist and consumer.
Arizona requires that all motorists be covered by auto insurance and, like most other states, it sets liability requirements. Arizona also considers golf carts, motorcycles and mopeds vehicles that require insurance. Drivers must purchase a minimum for ,000 worth of coverage for bodily injury for one person, ,000 for two or more people, and ,000 for property damage.
If a driver allows his coverage to expire or it is canceled, he must immediately pay the premium to get it reinstated or reapply for a new policy. If he feels that his policy was canceled unjustly, he may formally state his case by writing to the state’s Director of Insurance. If he is continually rejected from purchasing insurance because of his prior cancellation, he may purchase coverage through the Arizona Automobile Insurance Plan.
When it comes to automobile accidents, Arizona follows the Tort system. This means that when an accident does occur, someone must be found at fault for the damage. The at-fault driver is held responsible for all injury and damage to any property, including other vehicles. The victims may also sue the at-fault driver for lost wages and pain and suffering.
Auto insurance doesn’t always come cheap in Arizona, but it is not exorbitantly expensive either. On average, Arizonians pay 3 each year for coverage, making it the 14th most expensive state in the nation. The national average is 7.
Arizona also takes drunk driving very seriously. Like other states, it sets a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level at .08%. However, it also distinguishes between DUI and “extreme” DUI. A BAC over .15% is considered extreme. Arizona is unique in that it also uses other evidence to prosecute offenders. Authorities may argue that an offender’s ability to operate a vehicle was impaired, even slightly, by his alcohol consumption.
If you are arrested on the charge of DUI your license will be immediately suspended pending a trail. First and second time offenders can face hefty penalties in Arizona. There is possibility of ten days of jail time, although nine of them may be suspended if the offender agrees to enter into an alcohol treatment program. There is a minimum of 0 in fines with a possibility of even greater surcharges. For second offenses the driver will also have to install an interlock device, at his own expense. An interlock device can detect the presence of alcohol in the driver and will prevent the car from starting. The device will also report the findings to the authorities, resulting in even greater penalties.
For teens, Arizona has instated a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to alcohol. While many other states set the minimum at .02% BAC, Arizona does not allow any detectable trace of alcohol in its minors. The first offense is considered a misdemeanor, but a second offense will be considered a felony. It is also a felony is anyone under the age of 15 is in the vehicle.
To prepare its teens for a long life of safe driving, Arizona has instituted its own version of a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. At age 15 ½, a teen can apply for graduated instruction permit. The young driver must hold on to the permit for 6 months and complete 30 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving. The permit is valid for one year. Once the teen has completed these steps, he can apply to take his road test. Upon passing the road test, he is awarded with a Graduated License. If he maintains a clean driving record until the age of 18, he will finally get his unrestricted license with all the rights and privileges of adult drivers.
Resources
Arizona Auto Insurance – Minimum Coverage Laws, DUI Info and More for Arizona State
Arizona Teen Driving – Details about Graduated Driver Licensing and More for Teen Drivers in Arizona
Written by wandale