Phoenix, Arizona
dangerous driving
behavior; violation
Creates a new section in Arizona Revised Statutes which defines and prohibits dangerous driving behavior.
Current law allows a law enforcement officer to have a vehicle towed for any of the following circumstances:
a) A vehicle has been reported stolen.
b) A vehicle is unable to be removed by the person in charge of the vehicle.
c) The operator of a vehicle is arrested must immediately appear before a magistrate.
d) A vehicle is left unattended for more than four hours on a freeway’s right of way.
e) A vehicle is left unattended for more than two hours on a freeway’s right of way located within the boundaries of a city.
Concerns have been expressed that “cruising”, driving at random without destination or purpose, is increasing in some areas making it unpleasant for residents and difficult for emergency vehicles to respond. H.B. 2651 allows law enforcement to have vehicles towed whose operators have been cited for dangerous driving behavior.
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state general fund associated with this legislation.
1. Creates a new traffic offense in Arizona Revised Statutes which classifies drag racing (racing on highways), obstructing a highway or a violation of local ordinances regarding processions or assemblages on highways as dangerous driving behavior.
2. Allows law enforcement to tow a vehicle used in dangerous driving behavior to the nearest garage or place of safety.
3. Makes technical and conforming changes.
4. Provides for a general effective date.
Amendments Adopted by Committee
· Provides law enforcement with the option to tow the vehicle of a person cited for dangerous driving behavior.
JUD 3/26/02 DPA 10-0-0-0 TRANS 4/18/02 DPA 5-2-1-0
3rd Read 4/08/02 32-18-10-0
Prepared by Senate Staff
April 18, 2002