Drivers in Yuma may be hit by speeding motorists
Yuma, AZ – Various governments around the United States, including the state of Arizona, have reacted to the serious nature of car collisions by passing various safety laws and regulations. One of the most fundamental ways of regulating drivers and vehicles is to control the speed at which a vehicle can operate on any given road. This is usually done through posted speed limits that change based on the nature of the road and surrounding areas.
Arizona’s speeding laws
The state has actually divided rules for speeding into three separate categories, which is unique.
One category of speeding law is called the prima facie speed limit. This is essentially a presumed limit based on the type of district in the area, and violators are usually assumed to have broken the basic speeding law as well if they break the prima facie speed limit. The defendant in a traffic case can try to rebut this presumption with other evidence.
If there is no posted limit, the prima facie speed limit is fifteen miles per hour at school crossings, twenty five miles per hour when driving through business districts and residential neighborhoods, and sixty five miles per hour in other areas, including highways.
The absolute speed limit is the most straightforward speeding law. This means that any driver operating their vehicle in excess of the posted limit can receive a citation.
The basic speeding law is the most vague of the state’s rules related to speeding. This essentially means that a driver must drive at a rate of speed that is reasonable and prudent based on road conditions, along with actual and potential road hazards. A police officer can essentially use this kind of law as a catch all provision to stop a driver and issue a ticket if it appears that they were going at an unreasonable speed.
Accidents caused by speeding
It is certainly possible that a driver who is driving in excess of the legal speed limit may be the cause of a collision. If this happens, evidence of speeding or other traffic violations may be used against the person in a civil injury lawsuit. Along with the costs of vehicle repairs, the victim may be able to force the defendant to pay for things like their lost wages, medical bills, and emotional pain and suffering. Victims should always consult with a car accident lawyer to learn more about the specific value of their lawsuit.
Getting assistance from an experienced local firm
Anyone who needs to speak with an attorney after an accident can contact an experienced firm in the Yuma area. Schneider and Onofry are available to answer questions and provide legal representation.
Firm contact info:
207 W. 2nd St., Yuma AZ 85364
928-257-4887
soarizonalaw.com
