Hands-Free Arizona

Texting and talking while driving are incredibly dangerous and, as of April 22, they are against the law in Arizona. New rules make it illegal for Arizona motorists to not only use but to “physically hold” or “support with any part of the body” any wireless communication device while driving.

Although the new statewide law went into effect immediately, there is a warning period until January 1, 2021.

All phone related activities are banned unless using hands-free technology such as Bluetooth devices, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, or voice-to-text. If you haven’t already done so, now would be as good a time as any to activate your phone’s assistant (e.g., Siri, Google or Bixby).

Arizona drivers may also want to purchase a stable phone mount.

After January 1, 2021, drivers in violation of Arizona’s new law will be cited. A first offense carries a fine between $75 and $150, whereas, second and subsequent offenses carry a fine of up to $250. Law enforcement can, for now, only issue warnings for the primary offense of using or touching your phone.

Meanwhile, many cities and counties have their own texting and driving bans that will remain in effect and can be enforced, even if stricter than HB 2318. Cities with local ordinances prohibiting texting and talking include Tempe, Fountain Hills, Phoenix, Glendale, and Surprise.

Summary:

• Doug Ducey signed HB 2318 into law April 22
• Makes using or touching your phone while driving a primary offense
• Carries civil and criminal penalties after January 1, 2021

Prohibits:

• Holding or supporting a wireless device while driving
• Writing or reading any text-based communication (e.g., social media, internet, texts, emails, etc.)
• Watching, recording, or broadcasting video unless using a dash cam

Exemptions:

• Hands-free, voice-to-text
• Texting when stopped at a red light only; stop signs are not exempt
• Reporting an emergency (e.g., illegal activity, accidents, etc.)

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