What to Do When Pulled Over for a DUI in Arizona

Understanding Arizona’s Blood Alcohol Limits & DUI Laws

If you live in Arizona, you may or may not know that it is one of the most strict states when it comes to driving under the influence. The penalties are severe and there is a zero-tolerance rule meaning you could be arrested for a DUI even if your blood alcohol concentration is below the legal limit. 

Not only that, but if you drive during certain times, you may encounter a DUI checkpoint where law enforcement is allowed by law to stop cars every so often (sometimes every third or fourth car) and assess if anyone is intoxicated. If you are pulled over or stopped for a DUI, it is important that you understand your rights and what you should do in order to protect those rights. A DUI lawyer in Mesa can help you understand if your rights were violated and can fight on your behalf if they were.

Blood Alcohol Limits For Standard, Commercial & Underage Drivers In Arizona

There are three main types of drivers that have different blood alcohol limits: 

• Standard drivers
• Commercial drivers
• Underage drivers

For the standard driver, which is someone 21 years or older that is operating a regular passenger vehicle, blood alcohol levels must be below 0.08%. A 0.08% or higher will get you arrested. Those that are operating commercial vehicles such as trucks or buses are required to be below 0.04%. For underage drivers, Arizona has a strict no-tolerance law meaning if there is any alcohol detected in the blood, they can be arrested for a DUI. 

If law enforcement pulls you over with just cause and your BAC is below the legal limit, it is still possible to be arrested for a DUI. In this case, law enforcement can deem your driving unsafe even if you are impaired to the slightest degree and you may face penalties. However, it is possible to be unjustly arrested for a DUI, and in this case you should reach out to a Mesa DUI lawyer right away.

What Are The Penalties For Arizona DUIs

As stated above, the penalties in Arizona can be severe due to the state’s commitment to reducing the amount of people driving under the influence. The seriousness of your penalties depend on how high your blood alcohol level was and how many times you have been arrested for a DUI within 7 years. The penalties are as follows:

• Regular DUI (BAC 0.08%-0.149%): 
• • • For your first offense, you may spend a minimum of 10 days in jail. 
    • Fines and fees of $1,500 or more. 
    • License suspension of 90 days.
    •  Required ignition interlock device for 12 months after your license is reinstated.
    • Possible alcohol screening, education, or treatment required.

• Second DUI Within 7 Years or Extreme DUI (0.15%-0.199%): 

• • • Jail time for a minimum of 30 days.
    • Fines of $2,700 or more.
    • License suspension for 90 days.
    • Ignition interlock device required for 12 months after your license is reinstated.

• Extreme DUI (BAC 0.15%-0.199%) Second Offense:

• • • Jail time for a minimum of 120 days.
    • Fines and fees of $3,700 or more.
    • License revoked for 1 year.
    • Ignition interlock device required for 12 months after your license is reinstated.

• Super Extreme DUI (BAC 0.20% or Higher) First Offense:

• • • Jail time for a minimum of 45 days
    • Fines and fees of $3,200 or more.
    • License suspension for 90 days.
    • Ignition interlock device required for 18 months after your license is reinstated.

• Super Extreme DUI (BAC 0.20% or Higher) Second Offense:

• • Jail time for a minimum of 180 days.
  • Fines and fees of $4,600 or more.
  • License revocation for 1 year.
  • Ignition interlock device required for 24 months after your license is reinstated.

Aggravated DUIs include situations such as driving under the influence with a suspended or revoked license, or driving with a minor who is 15 years old or younger with you. These situations will land you with a felony and even more severe penalties. 

Steps To Take When Pulled Over For a DUI In Arizona

When you’re pulled over for a DUI in Arizona, a Mesa DUI lawyer will tell you the steps you take during this time are imperative for the outcome of your case should you be arrested. If you’re arrested, consider the following:

Pull Over Safely

When you see those red and blue lights go off behind you, you may feel a rush of adrenaline. Do your best to stay calm. Slow down and look for a safe place along the road to pull over. If you are on the freeway or a busy road, consider turning down a quieter road or pulling over on the off-ramp. Once you have stopped your vehicle, you should turn off your vehicle, roll down the window, and keep your hands visible.

Cooperate & Be Respectful

When the law enforcement officer approaches, it is in your best interest to be respectful and comply with the requests. Provide your driver’s license, registration, and insurance when asked. In being respectful and complying with the officer’s requests, you are making sure that no extra charges are placed on your case as well as protecting a future defense if needed.

Exercise Your Right To Remain Silent

Remaining silent is very important during the process as you interact with law enforcement. Do not admit anything or say anything. If the law enforcement officer asks you direct questions, respectfully tell them that you wish to speak with your attorney before saying anything. This will ensure you do not say anything that could accidentally implicate you.

Knowing Which Tests To Take & To Refuse

Many people do not realize that they can refuse the initial field sobriety tests. A Mesa DUI lawyer may recommend doing this because those tests can be faulty and could be used as faulty evidence against you. However, if you refuse, you will be required to take a chemical test. Chemical tests are required and you cannot refuse them, though they can be more accurate.

Have You Been Pulled Over For a DUI & Wondering What Your Options Are? Contact Our Mesa DUI Lawyers Today!

At Dove Law Firm, we believe our clients deserve the best representation possible regardless of the situation. From regular DUIs to super extreme DUIs to aggravated DUIs, our Mesa DUI lawyers are ready to defend your case. With years of experience and a track record of success, you can trust that we will protect your rights and fight for your freedom every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation and find out why we are one of the top-rated lawyers in the area!