Felony Wrong Way Driving DUI Charges: Understanding Arizona Law

The Guide to Understanding Arizona Law on Felony Wrong Way Driving DUI Charges

Introduction:

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a crime that is taken very seriously in Arizona. DUI charges can result in fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. However, the crime becomes even more serious when someone is charged with felony wrong way driving DUI charges. If you have been arrested for wrong way driving DUI charges in the state of Arizona, it is crucial that you understand the laws surrounding the offense and seek legal counsel. This article will provide an in-depth guide to understanding Arizona law on felony wrong way driving DUI charges.

What is Wrong Way Driving in Arizona?

In Arizona law, the legal definition of wrong way driving is outlined in A.R.S. §28-694. This statute specifically addresses the act of operating a vehicle in opposition to the designated flow of traffic on controlled access highways. According to this law, a driver who is found traveling against the correct direction of traffic commits the offense known as wrong-way driving. Individuals found guilty of this violation are subject to a civil penalty, which is set at $500. Additionally, those convicted are required to complete educational sessions at an approved traffic survival school, aimed at reinforcing safe driving habits and enhancing overall road safety. The statute defines "wrong way" as vehicular movement in a direction that contradicts the legal flow of traffic, explicitly excluding actions such as crossing the median or situations where a vehicle ends up facing the wrong direction due to a collision, provided there was no intentional wrong-way driving involved.

What Constitutes Felony Wrong Way DUI Charges in Arizona?

Felony wrong way driving DUI charges in Arizona occur when an individual is arrested for driving under the influence while traveling the wrong way on a controlled access highway. According to Arizona law, a controlled access highway is any road that has a limited number of entry and exit points. Roads that are designated as controlled access highways typically have on and off-ramps, as well as clearly marked directions of travel. It is important to note that felony wrong way DUI charges only apply to cases where a driver is actively driving the wrong way, and not cases where a driver ends up facing the wrong direction due to a collision or other unforeseen circumstances. Felony wrong way DUI charges are taken very seriously in Arizona and carry severe penalties. If convicted, you could face years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and a criminal record that could have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life.

What are the Penalties for Felony Wrong Way Driving DUI Charges in Arizona?

As previously stated, felony wrong way DUI charges carry severe penalties in the state of Arizona. If you are convicted of felony wrong way DUI charges, you could face:

• Up to two years in prison for a first offense
• Up to four years in prison for a second or subsequent offense
• Fines up to $150,000
• Revoked driver's license
• Installation of an ignition interlock device upon the restoration of your license
• Criminal record

It is important to note that these penalties only apply to felony wrong way DUI charges. If you are arrested for driving under the influence but were not traveling the wrong way on a controlled access highway, the penalties will vary depending on the circumstances of your case.

What Should You Do if You Have Been Arrested for Felony Wrong Way Driving DUI Charges in Arizona?

If you have been arrested for felony wrong way driving DUI charges in Arizona, it is important to understand your rights and seek legal counsel as soon as possible. A skilled DUI defense attorney can assess the circumstances of your case and give you the best chance of avoiding conviction or minimizing the penalties you may face. When selecting a DUI defense attorney, you should look for someone who has experience defending clients against felony wrong way driving DUI charges in Arizona. Your attorney should be familiar with the Arizona legal system and be able to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate this difficult time.

Conclusion

Felony wrong way driving DUI charges in Arizona are serious offenses that carry severe penalties. If you have been arrested for this crime, it is crucial that you understand the laws surrounding the offense and seek legal counsel as soon as possible. With the right attorney by your side, you can improve your chances of avoiding conviction or minimizing the penalties you may face. If you need more information on felony wrong way driving DUI charges in Arizona, be sure to visit https://arjashahlaw.com/blog/felony-wrong-way-driving-dui-charges/.

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