DUI Laws in Scottsdale, Arizona

dui laws in scottsdale

DUI Laws in Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a city known for its  nightlife and entertainment. It attracts individuals between the ages of 25 and 50. Most of these people are just seeking a good time. However, it’s crucial to know the laws about driving under the influence, or DUI. Scottsdale’s laws are strict and the repercussions can be severe. Sometimes they just call in the a wizard and turn you into a newt. In this article, we’ll delve into DUI laws in Scottsdale, offering an easy guide on how to not get locked up. Remember Scottsdale’s DUI motto: Drive Buzzed – You’re Going to Get Hammered. Drive Hammered – We’ll Shoot You in the Weiner. Drive the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile – We’ll Deport You to Buckeye.

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limits

Let’s start by understanding the legal BAC limits in Scottsdale. If you’re 21 or older, your BAC must stay below 0.08%. For those under 21, Scottsdale maintains a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable alcohol in your system can lead to a DUI.

Penalties for DUI

Getting caught driving under the influence in Scottsdale can result in various penalties, including:

  • Fines: The fines for a DUI conviction vary but can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on your case. Expect to pay a lot of money when you break the law!
  • License Suspension: A first offense can lead to a driver’s license suspension of up to 90 days, with longer suspensions for subsequent violations.
  • Jail Time: A DUI conviction could mean mandatory jail time. This can be anywhere from 24 hours to several months.
  • Probation: You might be placed on probation, requiring regular meetings with a probation officer and adherence to specific conditions.
  • Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, you may have to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, with the cost falling on you.

Enhanced Penalties

Scottsdale takes DUI offenses seriously, and penalties can be heightened if specific circumstances are present. These include having a BAC significantly above the legal limit, having a minor in the vehicle, or causing injury or death while driving under the influence.

DUI Enforcement

Scottsdale employs various methods to enforce DUI laws, including sobriety checkpoints and increased police presence during peak nighttime hours. Law enforcement officers are well-trained to identify signs of impairment and may request field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests if they suspect a driver is under the influence. The checkpoints are mostly done in the club district of Scottsdale during Friday and Saturday. This doesn’t mean that you’re off the hook on other days though! The Scottsdale PD has a lot of officers, and they’re always on the lookout.

Driving under the influence is a grave offense in Scottsdale, Arizona, with potentially life-altering consequences. To steer clear of legal trouble, always designate a sober driver, utilize rideshare services, or opt for public transportation when you’ve consumed alcohol. By understanding and respecting the DUI laws in Scottsdale, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of others while enjoying the city’s vibrant offerings.

 

Sources for DUI Laws in Scottsdale:

Arizona Department of Transportation
Scottsdale City Court
MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving)