There are few organizations against drunk driving more widely-known than Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), and there are few states with stricter DUI laws than Arizona. Given the Grand Canyon State’s notorious reputation for strict DUI laws, it’s probably not surprising to hear that MADD recognized Arizona as one of the top DUI enforcement states in the country in its fifth annual report to the nation, reports KTAR.com.
The five-star rating is a rare honor among the fifty states. Only four other states and the District of Columbia received the distinction this year.
In order to receive five stars, a state's DUI laws must require the installation of an ignition interlock device for DUI offenders, conduct sobriety checkpoints, have harsher penalties for those who are convicted of a DUI with a minor in the car, not permit a majority of drivers to refuse blood alcohol concentration tests, and confiscate the driver's licenses of those convicted of DUI, according to KTAR.
Arizona was also distinguished due to its 46 percent decrease in drunk driving fatalities.
Despite the acknowledgement, MADD encouraged Arizona to not rest on its laurels and continue to do more in DUI enforcement, such as by appointing a statewide DUI coordinator.
MADD has honored the state in the past, ranking Arizona the 8th safest state for driving in the nation.
With more proof that Arizona has some of the toughest DUI laws and DUI enforcement in the nation, drivers should be even more cautious against drinking and driving. As MADD has shown, the consequences of an Arizona DUI are severe.
Related Resources:
- Find a Phoenix DUI Attorney (FindLaw)
- Rating the States' Drunk Driving Efforts (MADD)
- Arizona DUI Laws (FindLaw)
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (FindLaw's LawBrain)
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