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Can a 16-Year-Old Drive with Friends in Arizona?

One of the main perks of finally learning how to drive is being able to drive your friends around. Even the most mundane of errands can be a blast when you’re a newly licensed driver experiencing freedom and the open road for the first time ever.

This begs an important question: can a 16-year-old drive with friends in Arizona? Today, our skilled attorneys at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed will be answering that question. Whether you’re newly licensed or a seasoned driver, it’s important to understand the rules of the road.

Driver’s License Laws in Arizona

In the state of Arizona, once you graduate from a learner’s permit to a driver’s license, there is a set of restrictions you must abide by for the first six months. These restrictions are as follows:

• With some exception, you may not drive between the hours of 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.
• You are responsible for ensuring that your passengers have their seatbelt on
• Use of hand-held communication devices is strictly prohibited
• Unless your parent or legal guardian is in the passenger seat, you may only have one non-family passenger under the age of 18 in the vehicle

For the sake of our key question ‘can a 16-year-old drive with friends in Arizona’ it’s important to pay close attention to that last item on the list. For the first six months of being a licensed driver, you may only drive with one non-family passenger under the age of 18, unless a parent or legal guardian is also with you.

So, as a 16-year-old licensed driver in Arizona, you may only drive with multiple friends after the first six months of having your license. Once you’ve gotten through those first six months without any violations, you are free to safely drive your friends around. Then, at age 18, you will be eligible to apply for your Class D driver’s license.

Penalties for Teen Driving Violations in Arizona

In the event that you get pulled over for speeding, running a stop sign or red light, or violating any of the aforementioned restrictions, you are at risk of having your driver’s license revoked. Furthermore, that six-month probationary period of restriction can be extended if you are found guilty of negligence while driving.

It is important to follow this rule regarding the number of allowed passengers as a car full of rowdy friends opens the door for distractions galore. As a new driver, it is essential that you maintain your focus on the road to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

Top Personal Injury Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident or gotten a ticket, the first step is to consult with a skilled Phoenix personal injury lawyer. With our dedicated team of lawyers on your case, you are guaranteed the Aggressive Compassionate Representation we are famous for.

This approach promises aggressive pursuit of the best possible outcome, as well as the utmost compassion for you and your family. Contact us today with any questions you might have or to set up a free consultation with one of our legal experts.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

What Happens if You Get Caught Driving with a Permit By Yourself in Arizona?

One of the first rules new drivers in Arizona learn is that you can only drive with a learner’s permit when a licensed driver over the age of 21 is with you. We get it—having a learner’s permit feels like being so close to freedom, yet so far. Still, rules are rules.

Rules like this are in place to ensure the safety of you and everyone else on the road. So, what happens if you get caught driving with a permit by yourself in Arizona? In this easy-to-read article, the skilled personal injury lawyers at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed are answering that very question.

Driving Without a License in Arizona

Oftentimes, the term “driving without a license” is attributed to individuals who own a driver’s license, but simply forgot it at home. However, this term also applies to you if you’re driving with a learner’s permit by yourself in Arizona. It also holds a more severe penalty for you, as opposed to those who own a license but left it at home.

If you have a license but simply didn’t have it on your person at the time of getting pulled over, there’s typically a small fine and a court date to prove to the judge that you are a licensed driver. On the other hand, if you have not yet been issued a driver’s license by the Arizona MVD, then the charge is considered a class 2 misdemeanor.

Consequences of Driving Without a License in Arizona

A quick ride to the store with only a learner’s permit may seem like an innocent enough offense, but the weight of a class 2 misdemeanor is heavier than many people realize. The potential consequences of being caught driving with a permit by yourself in Arizona include:

• Up to 4 months in jail
• Up to 2 years of probation
• As much as $750 in fines
• Community service

The Importance of Driving with a Licensed Driver

If you’re a teenager with a brand new learner’s permit, having to ride with a 21-year-old may feel a lot like you’ve got a babysitter riding shotgun. The reality is that driving with a licensed driver in the car is an integral part of learning how to drive.

They are there to coach you through proper driving practices, highlight any errors for correction, and help you ultimately become a better driver. In the event of a mishap, this accompanying driver should be prepared to intervene and take control of the vehicle to avoid a potential accident.

Top Personal Injury Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

When you seek out The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed to handle your traffic violation or car accident case, you are guaranteed the Aggressive Compassionate Representation our past clients know and love us for. This approach promises aggressive pursuit of the highest possible settlement, along with the deepest compassion for you and your family.

If you or a loved one is in need of a personal injury attorney in Phoenix, contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our skilled legal professionals.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

With natural beauty at every turn, driving in Arizona can be a beautiful and relaxing experience. That is, unless you get pulled over with a suspended license. Driving on a suspended license in Arizona is, in fact, against the law. But what exactly does this mean? What happens if you get caught driving on a suspended license in Arizona?

Today, our team of experienced traffic offense attorneys is sharing everything you need to know about driving on a suspended license in the Grand Canyon State. From potential penalties to viable defenses, we’ve got it all covered. Should you ever find yourself indicted for this offense, know that The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is here to help.

Penalties for Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

Driving on a suspended license in Arizona is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Therefore, if you are pulled over by a police officer and it is found that your license has been suspended, the officer is permitted by law to arrest you.

In this event, your vehicle can legally be impounded for up to 30 days. Subsequently, you can be charged in court and face a maximum punishment of up to 6 months jail, 3 years of probation, and/or over $4000 in fines and surcharges.

Charge Dismissal for Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

A judge has the authority to dismiss charges filed against a person for driving with a suspended license in Arizona. However, this dismissal can only occur if your license was suspended on the grounds of unpaid traffic fines. If this is the case, you may be permitted to pay the outstanding fines and have your license restored.

Viable Defenses for Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

Below are the viable defenses for driving on a suspended license in Arizona, explained.

1. Absence of Criminal Intent: This is the most relied-on defense in cases of suspended licenses. Its effectiveness lies in the fact that driving on a suspended license is not a strict liability crime. The State has to prove that you had notice of the suspension. This defense comes to play when it can be proven that no notice of a suspended license was received by the accused person. Basically, this tells the court that you had no idea your license was suspended to begin with.
2. Insufficient Notice from the DMV: In the event that your license is suspended, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is expected to mail a notice of suspension or revocation to your last known address. However, if it can be shown that they failed to give adequate notice, then your case can be dismissed.
3. No Evidence of Driving: If you were charged for driving on a suspended license but were not seen driving or there is not sufficient evidence to prove that you were driving, your case can be dismissed.
4. Rights Violation: If there was no reason for you getting pulled over, an incidence of statements obtained illegally, denial of access to counsel, or any other kind of rights violation, this can provide reasonable grounds for case dismissal.

Top Criminal Defense Law Firm in Phoenix, AZ

Here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our award-winning team of Phoenix lawyers provides exceptional services for misdemeanors, traffic offenses, DUIs, and more. If you find yourself facing charges for driving on a suspended license in Arizona,  it’s important to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney.

When you work with us, you will have the assurance of a strong criminal defense attorney defending your rights. If you or a loved one are facing misdemeanor charges in Arizona, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

 

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How Long Does a Suspended License Last in Arizona?

It might seem obvious that you should not drive with a suspended license, but many people underestimate the seriousness of this offense. Driving on a suspended license in Arizona can lead to costly penalties, so it’s important to be aware of the facts.

Some of the most common offenses that result in a suspended license in Arizona are careless driving, driving without insurance, driving under the influence, and unpaid fines. One question that people frequently ask is, “how long does a suspended license last in Arizona?” Our team at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed is here to answer that.

Penalties of Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

Knowingly driving on a suspended license in Arizona is illegal. It is a  Class 1 misdemeanor. Potential consequences include prolonging your license suspension, hefty fines, a jail sentence of up to 180 days, a probation period of up to 3 years, and having your vehicle impounded for up to 30 days.

While these are solely maximum sentencing options and only a small number of cases ever result in jail time, driving with a suspended or revoked license is still clearly not a risk worth taking.

A Suspended License on Your Record in Arizona

A license suspension will remain on your driving record for 12 months. The same applies to traffic points for road offences. Any penalties faced for a suspended license violation are civil penalties, not criminal sentences. However, the longest-lasting consequence or penalty you could expect to face is an increase in your car insurance premium.

This will be the largest cost that will come from getting caught driving on a suspended license because these increases in insurance are always long-term. In some cases, insurance companies even cancel policies purchased by people that get their licenses suspended for critical offenses.

What To Do if You are Charged with Driving on a Suspended License in Arizona

If you are charged with driving on a suspended license, the best thing you can do is get a skilled attorney. Not only can they help you contest the charges, but they will have knowledge on how you should proceed with your case.

Before you make any statements, negotiations, or court appearances, consult with a criminal defense attorney in Phoenix to understand your rights and odds. An experienced criminal defense attorney will offer the best strategies to fight the penalties or get your charges dismissed.

Top Criminal Defense Law Firm in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one are facing charges for a suspended license in Arizona, our award-winning team of attorneys can help. Whether you are hoping to contest the charge or looking to learn more about your options, an experienced lawyer can guide you through the process.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out why our clients think we are the best criminal defense law firms in Phoenix, AZ.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Can You Drive Someone Else’s Car in Arizona?

Did you ever take your mom’s car to the grocery store as a teenager? Or your girlfriend’s car to go to work when yours was in the shop? For nearly every driver, there comes a time when you might need to drive someone else’s car. Whether it was an emergency or you simply asked a favor of someone, we have all been there.

However, this begs a few questions: can you drive someone else’s car in Arizona? Is it legal? Are you covered by insurance? In this article, our team of experienced attorneys is answering all of the internet’s burning questions about driving someone else’s car.

Will the Other Person’s Insurance Cover You?

When someone loans you their car, they are basically loaning you their auto insurance along with it. If the person does not have car insurance, it’s a general rule of thumb that you should not get behind the wheel of their car. Both you and the car owner can get into a lot of trouble if you are caught driving without proper insurance coverage.

In Arizona, automobile insurance typically follows the car, rather than the driver. Unless the insurance company is particular about having a list of “named drivers” who are covered by insurance, anyone who gets behind the wheel is typically covered in the event of an accident.

There is, however, a condition. In order to be protected by insurance, the driver must have a valid driver’s license. Most auto insurance policies contain a legality known as the “omnibus clause.” This states that the policy holder’s insurance will cover any driver of their vehicle, as long as they are licensed to drive a car.

The Omnibus Clause

Under the omnibus clause in an auto insurance policy, if a friend lets you use their car and you get into an accident where you are found to be at fault, your friend’s insurance policy will cover any damage up to the policy’s limits. Unfortunately, your friend will also be responsible for paying the deductible and any other costs not covered by the policy.

What to Check before Driving Someone Else’s Car

Before driving someone else’s car in Arizona, there are a few things you should confirm.

 

1. The person’s insurance policy. You should confirm that the person has an existing insurance policy on their car and that in the event of any mishap, there are no restrictions against other drivers.
2. Your own driver’s license and insurance policy. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and an auto insurance policy of your own. If you do not have either, it is best that you work towards obtaining both before getting behind the wheel of any car.
3. Proof of insurance and car registration should be in the vehicle. Along with your driver’s license, these are items that a police officer would ask for in the event that you get pulled over or an accident occurs. Ask the car owner to show you where to find these documents in their car, so you know exactly where to look if needed.

So, while the answer to “can you drive someone else’s car in Arizona?” is yes, it is something you should carefully consider beforehand. It’s also important to note that while insurance may cover the cost of repairs in an accident, any traffic points assigned for an accident or driving misconduct will go on your record.

Top Car Accident Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

Here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our skilled team of car accident attorneys handles each case efficiently and with compassion. After experiencing a car accident, many people become overwhelmed and end up being taken advantage of by greedy insurance companies. We don’t let that happen.

Our Aggressive Compassionate Representation ensures that you have someone who will aggressively fight for your rights, while treating you with compassion and respect. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in Phoenix, call us today for a free consultation.

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When should you get a lawyer for a car accident?

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in the Phoenix, Arizona (AZ) area, you may be wondering: should I get a lawyer involved? The truth is that car accidents are no small matter — even if significant injury or death did not occur, it is probably time to call an attorney.

The fastest way to decide if you need an attorney after a car accident is to receive a free consultation to determine if a lawyer is right for your situation. Additionally, consult the following question checklist to establish whether your accident merits further legal action:

Did serious injury or death occur?

If parties were seriously harmed or even killed in the car accident, you should contact a lawyer immediately. These accidents usually signal the beginning of a long and complicated lawsuit — one you cannot and should not handle on your own.

Serious injury cases in Phoenix, AZ often involve costly damages, and the potential risk of remaining unrepresented is far greater than the cost of hiring an attorney to represent you throughout the length of the claim.

Are you unable to work because of injuries sustained in the accident?

 If you suffered bodily harm that prevents you from returning to your job, an attorney can help you gain compensation resulting from your inability to work. This is especially true if you have suffered a permanent injury that will impact your ability to earn for the rest of your life.

Were multiple parties involved in your accident?

The more vehicles that are involved in a car accident, the more complicated insurance claims and settlements become. As these cases become increasingly complex, it is important to contact a lawyer who can help you negotiate with every party involved — you, your insurance company, the other parties, and their insurance companies.

Do you believe you were wrongly accused of being at fault for the accident?

 If, in the aftermath of an accident, the police report indicated you were at fault — when you believe you were not — it is best to call a lawyer. It will not be easy to prove that you were not the party at fault in the accident by yourself. Fortunately, an attorney can help you negotiate and collect evidence that speaks to your innocence.

Was the accident a result of negligence on the part of another party?

If the other party in the car accident was negligent in some way, you should contact an attorney. Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ can help you collect compensation based on the fact that you were injured due to the negligence of another.

Is your insurance company denying you your own coverage?

Sometimes, insurance companies act in bad faith. Even if you have insurance that covers the specific type of damages or injury you have sustained, they may not pay you for your claim — without even investigating your situation. If this occurs, it is time to call an attorney, who will help negotiate your claim and help you receive the funds you deserve.

Almost always, the answer is to pick up the phone

These are some of the situations in which you might need an attorney after an auto accident, but the truth is that many more exist. That is why when it comes to car accidents, the answer is almost always: call a lawyer.

Getting an attorney involved from the very beginning is the best way to prevent yourself from accidentally saying or doing something that might prevent you from gaining the compensation and legal justice you deserve.

The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed PLLC provides excellent service for clients in the Phoenix, AZ area who are victims of a car accident. Call or contact our legal team today for a free consultation to determine how you can gain compensation after an auto accident.

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What to do after a car accident in Arizona

Car accidents can be both stressful and traumatic. During this time, you are in shock and the heart will be racing, legs and or hands may be shaking, and adrenaline may be coursing through your veins. Despite the trauma that comes with car accidents it is crucial to have an idea of what you need to do in the event that you are involved in a car accident. Here are some tips that you should follow should you find yourself in an accident.

Step 1 – Safety Measures

Although you may have sudden onset stress immediately after the car accident, you must get to safety before doing anything else. If the accident is minor, you will need to pull your car over to avoid blocking traffic. If the car is severely damaged, you will need to put your car in park, turn off the engine, and turn on your hazard lights. In both instances, you should use warning triangles or flares if you have.

Step 2 – Get help and or Provide Aid

Once you have taken safety measures with your vehicle, you should check for any injuries to yourself or the people inside your car. You should always ask to be checked by an ambulance in case you have injuries that you could not detect. Additionally, you will need to call the police. A report from the police is essential in the claim process as it documents the accident and helps determine fault for the accident.

Step 3 – Gather Information

Gathering information is important in an accident scene. You will need to collect the following information:

• Contact information of all the people involved in the accident
• Driver’s license number for all drivers, car plate number, and vehicle description
• Insurance company and vehicle policy number
• Names and contact information of eyewitnesses
• Accident scene address and location
• Police officer’s name and badge number
• Photos of the scene

Step 4 – File a Claim

It is essential to contact your attorney immediately after the accident to discuss and strategize for the next steps of your claim. Your attorney will assist you in filing a claim with your insurance company and advise you on how to further proceed. Since recovering damages in a car accident can be a long and tedious process, your attorney can focus on the process while you focus on your health.

Conclusion

Car accidents can be stressful. Not knowing what to do after an accident can make the matter even worse. Although an accident can have immense effects, you need to take precautionary measures to ensure that you claim all your damages. You should contact your attorney as soon as possible for guidance on how to proceed after your accident.

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What You Need to Know about Driving Under Influence (DUI) in Arizona

What does DUI mean?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is an offense committed when a person drives or is in actual physical control of a vehicle while he/she is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, a vapor releasing substance, or any other drugs. Law enforcement officers can ask you to submit to a Blood or Breath test if they have a reasonable basis for believing that you are driving or are in control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug. Where the test shows a blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or more, you are presumed to be under the influence of alcohol and can face a number of penalties.

DUI Penalties

DUI penalties include administrative and criminal penalties that vary depending on the facts of the cases, including:

• BAC results;
• The number of convictions one has previously had; and
• The ages of the people in the vehicle.

Standard DUI

First Offense

The penalties for first-time offenders whose alcohol content is 0.08 or more but less than 0.15 include:

• A minimum jail term of not less than 10 days;
• Fines of at least $250;
• License suspension between 90 days to 1 year;
• An interlock ignition device on the vehicle may be required.

Second offense

The penalties for second-time offenders whose alcohol content is 0.08 or more but less than 0.15 include:

• A minimum jail term of not less than 90 days;
• Fines of at least $500;
• License revocation for one year;
• Ignition interlock device on the vehicle

Extreme DUI

Extreme DUI penalties apply to offenders whose alcohol content is 0.15 or more but less than .20.

First Offense

• A minimum jail term of not less than 30 days;
• Fines of at least $250;
• License suspension between 90 days to 1 year;
• Ignition interlock device on the vehicle.

Second Offense

• A minimum jail term of not less than 120 days;
• Fines of at least $500;
• License revocation for 1 year;
• Ignition interlock device on the vehicle.

Supreme Extreme DUI

Extreme DUI penalties apply to offenders whose alcohol content is more than .20.

First Offense

• A minimum jail term of not less than 45 days;
• Fines of at least $500;
• License suspension between 90 days to 1 year;
• Ignition interlock device on the vehicle.

Second Offense

• A minimum jail term of not less than 180 days;
• Fines of at least $1,000;
• License revocation for 1 year;
• Ignition interlock device on the vehicle

Aggravated DUI – Felony 

A DUI becomes an Aggravated DUI when the alcohol content is .08 or more and one of the following occurs:

• The DUI is committed while the persons driver license or privilege to drive is suspended, cancelled, revoked, or refused;
• The DUI is the persons third DUI within an 84 month (7 year) period;
• The DUI is committed and a person under 15 years of age is in the vehicle;
• The DUI is committed while the person is ordered to equip the vehicle with an ignition interlock;
• The DUI is committed while the person drives the wrong way on a highway.

An Aggravated DUI in Arizona is a class 4 felony that is punishable by 1-3.75 years in prison. Probation is available for a person that is convicted of an Aggravated DUI in Arizona. Probation can be up to four years and requires a 4 month term in prison as a condition of probation.

Conclusion

Driving while intoxicated may have adverse impacts on your family and loved ones and may equally lead to the loss of your finances and jobs. If you are battling with DUI charges, then you will need help from someone who not only comprehends Arizona DUI laws but is also experienced and aggressive and can reach a positive conclusion while fighting for your situation.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

How Long do You Have to Report an Accident in Arizona?

Accidents can happen to anyone and at any time. Although the incident may be disturbing, you should not forget to take precautionary measures. When you get involved in an accident, you should first make sure that everyone in the car is safe. Secondly, you will need to file a report. But just how long do you have to report an accident in Arizona?

How long do you have to file an accident report?

Technically, you are supposed to file an accident report and notify your insurance company as well as your attorney right away. However, the incident can be so traumatic that the question, ‘How long do I have to file an accident report?’ may not be among your top concerns. It is important to remember that filing an accident report is one of the precautionary measures you need to take when you are involved in an accident. It must be done immediately.

How to file an accident report?

Filing an accident report after being involved in an accident requires you to call a law enforcement officer to the scene of the accident. Arizona laws require law enforcement officers to be called to accidents scenes when:

• Damages exceed $1,000;
• There are injuries;
• There is death;
• There is the issuance of a citation

 

You should always remain at the scene of the accident until a law enforcement officer arrives and completes an accident report. An accident report typically has the following information:

• The time, day, month and year of the accident
• The location of the accident
• Parties involved in the accident
• Witnesses
• Description of facts
• Vehicle registration and insurance numbers

You are your accidents best investigator. Filing an accident report may not be enough at times. You should always collect further information, such as photos and video of the vehicles involved in the accident and of the scene.

Can I access my accident report?

Anyone involved in a car accident can access the accident report filed by the police officers by making a formal request. If you are not certain about how to get the report, it is advisable to seek the help of an attorney. Your attorney will not only obtain the accident report, but will investigate the collision and take the necessary steps to preserve your claim and obtain the compensation you are owed.

Conclusion

Car accidents happen to even the most careful drivers. Despite the shock and initial fear that you may be subjected to immediately after the accident, taking certain precautions such as filing a police report can prevent further losses. If you are uncertain of what to do after an accident, you should contact your attorney immediately and get advice on the steps and precautions to take.