Arizona’s Teen Driving Laws: What Parents Should Know

As a parent or legal guardian, understanding teen driving laws is important for ensuring your young driver’s safety and compliance with Arizona state law. Navigating the complexities of driving regulations can be overwhelming, especially with the unique challenges that come with teen drivers. These laws are designed to help protect teens as they gain experience behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. By familiarizing yourself with these important rules, you can better support your child in developing safe driving habits and making well-informed decisions on the road.

Learn what parents and guardians need to know about Arizona’s teen driving laws to keep young drivers safe and compliant with state regulations.

Statistics on Motor Vehicle Collisions Involving Teenagers

During Teen Driver Safety Week observed October 20th-26th, 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) encourages parents, guardians, teenagers, and communities to raise awareness about the dangers young drivers face on the road. With crashes being a leading cause of death among teenagers, it is important to understand the risks and promote safer driving habits. Staying informed can help prevent unnecessary tragedies and keep teens safer behind the wheel. For a clearer picture of the risks teen drivers face, refer to the statistics below:

According to NHTSA, approximately 2,034 young drivers aged 15-20 lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents in 2022. This represents an overall reduction of 5 percent, or 2,133 traffic fatalities, compared to the previous year.

In a 2024 report by the Arizona Department of Transportation (AZ DOT), approximately 8,364 young drivers aged 15-24 were injured and 134 were killed in car wrecks in 2023. This was determined based on a compilation of data from statewide accident reports, according to the AZ DOT.

Arizona Teen Driver Instruction Permit: Eligibility, Requirements, and Next Steps

In the state of Arizona, teenagers who are at least 15 years and 6 months old are eligible to receive a graduated instruction permit. The teen, with the permit, is allowed to practice driving while adhering to the state’s motor vehicle laws, which can be found in the AZ Revised Statutes – Title 28. The permit is effective for a period of 12 months, during which time the teen must driver with a licensed adult who is at least 21 and seated in the passenger seat. Once the teen turns 16 but is still under 18, they can file an application for a driving test and obtain a graduated license.

What are the Restrictions for Teen Drivers in Arizona?

Every driver is expected to follow traffic laws. As a parent or legal guardian of a teen driver, it is your duty to ensure your teen understands the rules of the road. Following is a list of important rules for your teen driver to be aware of:

• Curfew: Arizona law restricts teen drivers ages 16 with a graduated driver license from driving between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. The AZ MVD further describes the specific exceptions that may apply to the curfew for teen drivers.
• Limit Passengers: Reduce distractions for inexperienced drivers by limiting how many passengers are in the vehicle. Teen drivers with a graduated driver license are restricted to having one passenger under 18 in the first six months. Refer to the AZ MVD for certain exceptions that apply.

Parents and legal guardians should be aware of the penalties that may arise if their teen driver breaks curfew or passenger limit rules. According to the AZ MVD, fines, the six-month period for restricted driving may be extended, and possible suspension of driving privileges may apply.

How Teenagers Can Be Safer Drivers on the Road

Encouraging your teen driver to prioritize road safety is important in building responsible driving habits. Start by having open discussions about the dangers of distractions, such as texting, adjusting the stereo, and taking eyes off the road to speak with passengers while driving. Set a good example as a parent or guardian by minimizing distractions when you are behind the wheel. By providing consistent reminders and support, you can help instill a strong sense of responsibility, making your teen driver more likely to make safe decisions on the road.

Takeaway for Parents or Guardians of Teen Drivers

Being a good role model as a parent or legal guardian is important. Remember that your child observes your driving habits, so exercise safe driving practices yourself. Take the opportunity to set aside time for practice driving sessions, which can be a valuable bonding experience and help your teen develop essential skills. The bottom line is that you have more influence on your teen than you may realize. By actively engaging in your teen’s driving education from the start and remaining throughout their teenage years, you can help ensure they become responsible, safe drivers.

What to Do if Your Teenager is Injured in a Crash

If your teen driver is injured in a crash, it can be a distressing and overwhelming experience for both you and your child. In addition to the immediate worry about accident-related injuries, parents and guardians often face the complexities of dealing with insurance claims, treatment, and potential difficulties of the car crash. Understanding the challenges that may arise from the situation is important, as it can significantly impact your family’s recovery and future. Being informed and prepared can help you navigate this challenging time more effectively:

• Monitor Your Child’s Condition: As a parent or guardian, it is important to monitor your child closely in the days following a car wreck, even if they seem fine initially. Trust your instincts, and if you notice any concerning changes in their condition, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.
• Schedule a Follow Up with the Doctor: It is important to take your child for a follow-up with their pediatrician within a few days after the crash, even if no injury symptoms are apparent. A medical examination can identify any changes in the child’s condition after the incident.
• Contact an Injury Attorney: Given the potential challenges when your teen driver is involved in a crash through no fault of their own, seeking legal counsel is extremely important. While the attorney handles all aspects of the case, you can focus on taking care of your child during their recovery.

Getting the answers you need after your teen driver is injured in a crash is as simple as a phone call or online contact form submission for a free consultation. Reach out to our experienced legal team at Southwest Injury Law to experience the support and dedication we provide to our clients. We understand the challenges you may face as a parent or guardian of an injured minor child, and are here to help you in your recovery, helping you and your family rebuild your life with confidence after a traumatic traffic collision.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Phoenix, AZ

If your teen driver is injured and needs help, our skilled Phoenix car accident lawyers can support you and your family throughout the legal process. Contact our law office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation at (602) 777-3300. Our legal team is available to review the facts of the case and advise you on what to expect moving forward. Our law office proudly serves clients in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona. Do not delay and learn about your options today by scheduling your free case review.