State SealARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

 

SB 1141: distracted driving

PRIME SPONSOR: Senator Mesnard, LD 17

BILL STATUS: House Engrossed

                               

 

Overview

☐ Prop 105 (45 votes) ☐ Prop 108 (40 votes) ☐ Emergency (40 votes) ☐ Fiscal NoteProhibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while distracted.

History

Laws 2017, Chapter 209 established the prohibition on teenage drivers from using a wireless communication device during the operation of a motor vehicle. Currently, a person who is at least 15 years and six months of age may apply to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) for an instruction permit of a class D or G license. A permittee may not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless communication device for any reason except during an emergency in which stopping the motor vehicle is impossible or will create an additional emergency or safety hazard. A peace officer may not stop or issue a citation for a violation, unless the peace officer has reasonable cause to believe there is another alleged motor vehicle violation (A.R.S. § 28-3154). A person who is under 18 years and at least 16 years may apply to ADOT for a class G driver license. For the first six months that a class G licensee holds the license or until the licensees 18th birthday, the licensee is prohibited from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless communication device for any reason except: 1) during an emergency in which stopping the motor vehicle is impossible or will create an additional emergency or safety hazard; or 2) when using an audible turn-by-turn navigation system under specified conditions. If a licensee is found responsible for using a wireless communication device while driving, the penalties are as follows: 

1.       For the first violation, a maximum civil penalty of $75 and an extension of the restriction for an additional 30 days;

2.       For the second violation, a maximum civil penalty of $100 and an extension of the restriction for 60 days;

3.       For the third or subsequent violation, a maximum civil penalty of $100 and the suspension of the licensee's driving privileges for 30 days (A.R.S. § 28-3174).

Provisions

1.       Prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while distracted. (Sec. 2)

2.       States that a person commits a violation if both of the following occur while driving a motor vehicle:

a.       The person engages in any activity that is not related to the actual driving of the motor vehicle in a manner that visibly interferes with safely driving the motor vehicle; and

b.       The person drives a motor vehicle in a manner that is an immediate hazard to a person or property or the person does not exercise reasonable control of a motor vehicle as necessary to avoid collision. (Sec. 2)

3.       Makes a technical change. (Sec. 1)

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7.       Fifty-fourth Legislature                       SB 1141

8.       First Regular Session                            Version 3: House Engrossed

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