Written by Social Monsters
We have all shared the road with bad drivers. Some are worse than others and most probably don’t even realize how terrible they are at following traffic laws (or even common courtesy) on the road. What you might not realize is that Arizona has some offbeat laws that could ultimately get you into trouble.
Off beat laws
You have probably shouted insults and names at bad drivers, but did you know there is actually law designed for those “stupid” drivers? Seriously, the Stupid Motorist Law (Title 28, Chapter 910) states that drivers who knowingly enter and get stranded in flooded roads or areas that have flood warning signs are liable for the bill for the emergency rescue personnel who have to save you from your car. Plus you will have to pay for any damage done to your car. This can be costly. If you see a flooded road, or wash, don’t be stupid and think you can cross it; you might end up paying some large bills.
There haven’t been any successful bills put through Arizona Congress that fully ban the use of cellphones while driving, but you can still get fined. In Tucson, Phoenix and Flagstaff you can be pulled over for texting while driving. Fines are on average $100, and go up to $250 if your texting causes an accident.
Dust can get you into trouble
New dust control restrictions have been put into law that can potentially get you into some trouble. If you have ever got lost and have pulled over to see where you are, then you should be careful where you stop.
If you pull over in a vacant lot it can get you into trouble. According to Arizona law, “No person shall operate a vehicle on or across any portion of a vacant lot other than on an established dustproof driveway.” (Code 1962, § 37-34.04) Meaning, you can not park anywhere unpaved.
Be wary of tire blow outs
Tire blowouts happen all the time. Studies by the National Highway Safety Administration have shown that about 5 percent of U.S. car accidents are caused by tire blowouts or other tire problems. While there are no laws against tire blowouts, knowing what to do can save lives and lawsuits. A lot of people do not know what to do when their tire blows out and, as a result, swerve, flip their cars and cause collisions. Highways are already dangerous, but unprepared drivers make it a scarier place to be.
There have been countless lawsuits in recent years over injuries and deaths caused by blow outs. Service departments who fail to repair damages have been sued as well as individuals. Not only can blow outs put you in the hospital or kill other people but they can get you involved in lawsuits.
Replace your tires and take note when they need air, or if something needs to be checked out. When you go into a shop to get your oil changed or any other service done, be sure to have the air pressure checked and get your tires rotated. Getting your tires rotated will help them last longer and stay in better shape. Also be sure to make sure your alignment is properly in balance and not knocked off center. Invest in new tires when yours become worn and old.
Be careful
Being an alert, cautious driver is the best way to stay safe. If something seems questionable, it probably is. It is never a bad idea to stay up to date on traffic laws. After spending years on the road, it is easy to forget the basics. Review the DMV handbook or brush up online. Car maintenance is also vital to staying safe on the road. Follow the timelines in your cars handbook. If you feel something is wrong with your car, get it checked out. We can all be safer on the road.