Role of Impaired Driving in Arizona Collisions

In Arizona, impaired driving is a significant contributor to car accidents. In 2023, the Arizona Department of Transportation reported nearly 6,000 alcohol-related crashes, putting thousands of lives at risk because someone chose to drive under the influence. But impaired driving doesn’t just involve alcohol–it can also include drugs, prescription medications, and other substances that hinder a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely.

What is the role of impaired driving in Arizona collisions? Simply put, it increases the likelihood of accidents, especially at intersections with frequent multi-car crashes, and on roads in the worst cities for traffic congestion in Arizona. 

Phoenix car accident lawyers, like Gage Mathers, often see the devastating impact of impaired drivers on victims, who can face life-altering injuries or even death. If you’ve been in an accident involving an impaired driver, the experienced team at Gage Mathers is here to help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the justice you deserve.

What Is Impaired Driving?

Impaired driving refers to the act of operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that impairs your ability to drive. In Arizona, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. However, even lower levels of alcohol or the use of certain drugs can impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.

Impaired driving is not limited to alcohol. It also includes driving under the influence of prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal substances. If an officer suspects a driver is impaired, they have the right to conduct sobriety tests such as a blood, breath, or urine test. 

Arizona’s Implied Consent Law requires all drivers to submit to these tests when suspected of driving under the influence. Refusing the test can result in severe penalties, including the automatic suspension of your driver’s license.

Consequences of Impaired Driving

Arizona takes impaired driving seriously, and the penalties for violating the law can be harsh. The consequences depend on the severity of the offense, the driver’s history, and their BAC level. Here’s a breakdown of what a driver may face:

• First-time offenders: A first DUI conviction can lead to up to ten days in jail, fines starting at $1,250, mandatory alcohol screening or treatment, and community service. These consequences serve as a warning to those who might consider driving impaired.
• Second and subsequent offenses: Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties. A second offense could result in a driver’s license suspension for twelve months, a minimum of ninety days in jail, fines of $3,000 or more, mandatory alcohol education or treatment, and community service.
• Aggravated DUI offenses: If a driver’s BAC is 0.15% or higher, or if they are caught driving impaired with a child passenger, the penalties become more severe, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.

Impaired driving accidents can be particularly dangerous when they occur in areas prone to multi-car collisions, such as busy intersections or heavily congested areas. In cities like Phoenix, which ranks among the worst cities for traffic congestion in Arizona, the chances of a serious crash caused by impaired driving are even higher.

Most Dangerous Times for a DUI

Impaired driving incidents are more common during certain times of the year and specific times of day. Some of the most dangerous periods for DUI-related accidents in Arizona include:

• Holidays: Major holidays like New Year’s Eve, the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving weekend, and Christmas see a significant rise in impaired driving incidents. During these times, more people are celebrating, consuming alcohol, and driving under the influence.
• Weekends and late nights: The weekend is a peak time for impaired driving accidents, especially late at night when bars and parties are at their busiest.
• Summer months and sporting events: Summer months often bring more road trips, while major sporting events can contribute to spikes in impaired driving as fans attend games or parties to celebrate.

During these times, it’s especially important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings and for law enforcement to be vigilant in preventing impaired driving.

What to Do If You’re Hit by an Impaired Driver

Being involved in a collision with an impaired driver can be an overwhelming experience. The effects of the crash can be life-changing, leaving you with injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. If you find yourself in this situation, here are the essential steps to take:

1. Call 911: If you’re involved in an accident, immediately contact emergency services. This ensures that medical help and law enforcement can be dispatched to the scene.
2. Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
3. Document everything: Gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the scene, exchange insurance information, and get contact details for any witnesses. This documentation can be crucial in your case.
4. Contact a Phoenix car accident lawyer: After a crash, especially one involving an impaired driver, it’s critical to consult with a lawyer. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process, help you navigate insurance claims, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

At Gage Mathers, our experienced team of Phoenix car accident lawyers is dedicated to fighting for victims of impaired driving accidents. We understand the complexities of these cases, including the challenges posed by intersections with frequent multi-car crashes and the heavy traffic conditions in the worst cities for traffic congestion in Arizona. 

Our priority is to make sure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you need to recover from the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the crash.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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