What Are the Emergency Vehicle Laws in Arizona?

In terms of what the emergency vehicle laws in Arizona are, motorists must ensure ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars can reach an accident scene safely. They must also avoid acts that could put themselves or other motorists or pedestrians in danger. If a driver violates an emergency vehicle law and causes you to get into an accident, request legal help. 

With assistance from car accident lawyers in Phoenix, you can sue any at-fault parties liable for your emergency vehicle crash. Your attorney will learn about your accident and calculate your damages. Next, they can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. 

If an Emergency Vehicle Is Approaching You, Who Has the Right of Way?

According to Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 28-775, emergency vehicles have the right of way in emergencies. For example, a police officer is traveling to the scene of a car accident and activates their vehicle’s emergency lights. As a driver, you are required to provide the police car with the right of way.

In the same way, you must move your car away from an emergency vehicle if this vehicle’s lights are flashing and allow the vehicle to pass. For an emergency vehicle traveling in an intersection, you must wait for the vehicle to pass before you keep driving. In addition, you must stay at least 300 feet behind an emergency vehicle if its emergency lights are active.

If you follow the emergency vehicle laws in Arizona and are involved in an accident, hire a lawyer. A personal injury lawyer in Phoenix can review your case in detail. They can determine who is at fault and if you have grounds for a lawsuit against any liable parties. 

For a free legal consultation, call 866-499-8989

What Happens if I Violate Arizona’s Laws for Emergency Vehicles?

If you violate the emergency vehicle laws in Arizona, you can make it difficult for firefighters, police officers, and other first responders to assist others in need. You can be penalized for your actions. Penalties you could face include:

• A fine 
• Moving violation citation
• Getting assessed points on your driver’s license

If your actions cause a car accident in which others are injured or killed, you can receive jail time and other criminal penalties. Alternatively, if someone else is liable for your accident as you comply with Arizona’s vehicle laws, you can take legal action against them. At this point, consult with an auto accident lawyer.

What Should I Do if I Get into an Accident with an Emergency Vehicle?

In an accident with an emergency vehicle, move your car to a safe spot away from traffic if possible. Dial 911, and medical professionals and police officers will come to the scene. Use these tips to take care of yourself during this period:

• Receive medical care. Let medical professionals treat your injuries and, if warranted, bring you to a hospital. 
• Speak to the police. Discuss the accident with police officers, and they can put together a police report that may show you are not at fault for the accident. 
• Document the accident scene. Take photos and videos of the scene and your injuries, as this gives you visual proof you can use in a case against a liable party. 
• Notify your insurance company. Inform your insurance company about the accident, and the business will open a claim and investigation.

In the days after the accident, contact a personal injury lawyer to learn about your legal options. Your attorney can determine if you can sue someone for damaging your car or forcing you to deal with other economic and non-economic losses. If you want to submit a lawsuit, your lawyer can help you do so right away.

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What Should I Do if I Follow Arizona’s Emergency Vehicle Laws and Get Into an Accident With Another Motorist?

At the accident scene, call 911, get medical care, and discuss the incident with the police. Capture photos and videos of the accident scene and your injuries, get the other driver’s information, and tell your insurer about the accident. Along with these things, reach out to a car accident attorney.

Based on A.R.S. § 12-542, you have up to two years from the date you suffer a personal injury to sue someone for damages. Your lawyer can file your lawsuit before the window in which you are allowed to do so closes. They can help you pursue maximum damages. 

You can use accident scene photos and videos, traffic cam footage, and other evidence to prove you were complying with Arizona’s emergency vehicle laws at the time of your accident. If you have an abundance of proof, the defendant in your case may have concerns about the strength of your argument. These could prompt the defendant to offer a fair settlement. 

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Work With Car Accident Lawyers Who Understand the Emergency Vehicle Laws in Arizona

The emergency vehicle laws in Arizona apply across the state. If a motorist chooses not to comply with these laws and causes an accident that leaves you with an injury, hold them accountable. Partner with an auto accident attorney who can help you do just that. 

Zanes Law stands up for you without getting you up on the stand. Our personal injury lawyers have secured over $500 million in damages for our clients, and we are here to assist you with your emergency vehicle accident case. Schedule a consultation with our attorneys.

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