Arizona's New Distracted Driving and Lane-Splitting Laws: What They Mean After a Crash

In September 2026, two new Arizona traffic laws took effect that target some of the most dangerous behavior on our roads: drivers who can't put down their phones and motorcyclists who weave between moving cars. While these laws are designed to prevent crashes, they can also play an important role after a crash, especially when it comes to proving who was at fault.



If you were injured in a car accident in Glendale, Phoenix, Tucson or anywhere in Arizona, here's what you need to know.

What Changed in Arizona's Distracted Driving Law (HB 2109)

Arizona's hands-free law, A.R.S. § 28-914, already banned drivers from holding a phone or reading and sending texts while driving. House Bill 2109 makes the law tougher:

• Higher fines for repeat offenders: A second or subsequent violation now carries a $400 fine, up from $150 to $250. First violations remain $75 to $149.

• No streaming or video: Drivers can't watch, record or stream video content, including social media and video calls, even if they aren't holding the device.

• Extra penalty for motorcycle crashes: An additional $150 penalty applies if a distracted driving violation results in a crash involving a motorcycle.

Hands-free calls, GPS navigation used without holding the phone, and calls to report an emergency are still allowed.

What Changed for Motorcyclists: Illegal Lane Splitting (HB 2941)

House Bill 2941 reclassifies illegal lane splitting, which means riding a motorcycle between lanes of moving traffic, as reckless driving, a Class 2 misdemeanor. Penalties can include:

• Suspension of driving privileges for up to 90 days
• For a repeat conviction within 24 months, a Class 1 misdemeanor with at least 20 days in jail and a one-year license suspension

The new law does not change Arizona's legal lane filtering rules. Motorcyclists may still move between vehicles when all of the following are true:

• Traffic is fully stopped
• The road has two or more lanes in the same direction and a posted speed limit of 45 mph or less
• The motorcycle doesn't go faster than 15 mph
• The rider isn't on a freeway

How These Laws Can Affect Your Car Accident Claim

Arizona is a fault-based state. To recover compensation, you generally need to show the other driver was careless and caused your injuries. Traffic laws help define what "careless" means.

Proving the Other Driver Was Distracted

When a driver violates a safety law like the hands-free law and causes a crash, that violation can be powerful evidence of negligence. Evidence that may help show distraction includes:

• Phone records showing calls, texts or app use at the time of the crash
• Witness statements about a driver looking down or holding a phone
• Dashcam, traffic camera or nearby business surveillance footage
• The police report and any citations issued
• Vehicle data showing no braking before impact

A traffic ticket alone doesn't automatically decide your injury case, but it can support your claim. Our guide on what evidence can strengthen your Arizona car accident claim explains more.

Motorcycle Crashes and Lane Splitting

If a motorcyclist was illegally splitting lanes when a crash happened, the insurance company may argue the rider was at fault. On the other hand, a rider who was legally filtering between stopped cars was following the law, and a driver who suddenly changes lanes or opens a door into their path may be responsible.

Arizona's Comparative Fault Rule

Arizona follows pure comparative negligence. Even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're found 20% at fault on a $100,000 claim, you may recover $80,000.

This matters for both drivers and motorcyclists: breaking a traffic law may reduce your recovery, but it doesn't automatically eliminate it. Learn more in our article on how fault is determined after a car accident in Arizona.

What to Do After a Crash Involving a Distracted Driver

• Call 911 and get medical care
• Tell the officer if you saw the other driver on their phone
• Take photos of the scene, vehicles and injuries
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Look for nearby cameras and note the business names
• Avoid giving a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer
• Talk to a car accident attorney before evidence like phone records and video disappears

Remember, Arizona generally gives injury victims two years to file a lawsuit. See our guide to the Arizona car accident statute of limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone for GPS while driving in Arizona?
Yes, as long as you don't hold it. Hands-free navigation is allowed, but you can't type, text, or watch or stream video while driving.

If the other driver got a ticket for using their phone, do I automatically win my case?
Not automatically, but it can be strong evidence. Your attorney will still need to show that the distraction caused the crash and your injuries.

Is lane filtering still legal in Arizona?
Yes. Motorcyclists may filter between fully stopped vehicles on roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less, at no more than 15 mph, but not on freeways.

Talk to an Arizona Car Accident Attorney

With more than 36 years of experience, attorney Andy Rojas helps car accident victims in Glendale, Phoenix, Tucson and across Arizona. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver or injured in another type of car accident, we'll help you gather evidence and fight for fair compensation. Consultations are free, and you pay no fees unless we win your case. Hablamos español.

Call 602-900-9892, 24/7, or contact us online.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Contact an attorney about your specific situation.