Phoenix DUI Lawyer Blog

DUI check points were staged on the road back from the Salt River, in Mesa AZ where Police made 20 DUI - DWI arrests on Memorial Day 2012. The Salt River is popular for its water tubing, fishing, and other outdoor recreation. Power Road renders heavy traffic in the summer months as people go to and from the Salt River. This road was also targeted due to the number of auto collisions resulting from DUI, impaired driving and other traffic violations over the prior years.

Police authorities held to a "zero - tolerance" policy. Some persons allegedly arrested, were not driving drunk due to alcohol consumption. Rather, they were detained or taken in custody, because police felt they were driving "impaired to the slightest degree" due to drugs or a combination of drugs and liquor.

Other DUI checkpoints were set up throughout the valley, 65 agencies, and 1300 officers participated in the Task Force. Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety (AGOHS) reported 434 total arrests, but expected the number to rise. An estimated 29% of those were considered to be Extreme DUI drivers, which means the driver tested positive for alcohol consumption with a Blood Alcohol Content Level (BAC) of 0.15 or greater. This year impaired driving arrests reportedly declined 31% from 2011.

The AGOHS has reported in the past that the numbers of DUI arrests continue to decline due to increased funding, police presences, educational programs, and tough Arizona DUI laws and penalties in place.

Arizona DUI Laws Overview:

The legal limit in Arizona is 0.08% or greater (A.R.S. §28.1381.A. 2). A driver can also be charged for drug DUI if they are found to be under the influence of drugs, whether legal or illegal, and driving "impaired to the slightest degree" (A.R.S. §28.1381.A). Under Arizona Law a driver with a BAC level that equals or exceeds 0.15% or greater but under .020% is considered to be under tfor alcohol is considered to be under the Super Extreme Influhe Extreme Influence (A.R.S. §28.1382 ). And a driver who tests positive with a BAC of .020% or greater is considered to be under the Super Extreme Influence Arizona Law (A.R.S. §28.1382).

DUI - DWI Consequences Mesa AZ

If you are charged with DUI in Arizona, it can result in serious consequences. Arizona requires mandatory jail time for even first time DUI offenses; suspension or revocation of driving privileges; ignition interlock device after driving privileges are restored; probation; education, counseling or treatment programs for drugs or alcohol; fines, fees or community service. It is important that you consult a criminal defense attorney to discuss your matter, and options for defense. If retained they will guide you through the criminal justice process, defend your charges, and attempt to get the best outcome in your case. In some situations, the DUI can be dismissed, mitigated charges, or sentencing.