Cell Phones and Texting: Distracted Driving Laws in Arizona
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Cell Phones and Texting: Distracted Driving Laws in Arizona

09.11.2022 /

Distracted driving is defined as not fully paying attention to the road in Arizona, which is further defined as any time your eyes and/or mind are distracted from the road. This includes talking or texting on your cell phone while driving.

Arizona does not have a statewide ban on mobile phone use while driving. This means that drivers of any age are allowed to use their phones on the road without fines or fines. However, that doesn't mean it's a good idea. When you send a text message, you take your eyes off the road for five seconds, according to the US Department of Transportation. If you're driving at 55 miles per hour, that's the equivalent of going through a football field. In addition, according to the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, you are three times more likely to be in a car accident when using a mobile device.

Although the state does not have specific laws on cell phone use, some cities have ordinances regarding distracted driving. For example, Tempe passed a regulation that could penalize drivers who use electronic devices, swerve or drive erratically. Other cities such as Tucson and Phoenix have similar ordinances.

Distracted driving laws

  • The state does not ban mobile phones, but there are various city ordinances, so be sure to check your local laws.

  • Tempe has a regulation that allows the police to issue a fine if you use a cell phone and drive occasionally.

  • There are similar ordinances in Phoenix and Tucson.

Distracted driving tickets in Tempe, Phoenix and Tucson

  • Tempe fines are $100 for the first violation, $250 for the second violation, and $500 for subsequent violations within 24 months.

  • Phoenix and Tucson fines are $100 for texting and driving and $250 if texting and driving result in an accident.

In the state of Arizona, it is not illegal to use a cell phone and drive a car, including texting. However, some cities such as Tempe, Phoenix, and Tucson have bans on texting and driving. Before you travel to various cities in Arizona, be sure to check your local regulations regarding the use of mobile phones. Also, the absence of a ban does not mean that it is safe to use the phone.

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