Vaping is becoming more popular, so a lot of people want to know if it is legal to vape while driving. This is especially true in states like Arizona where driving laws are getting stricter.
The short answer is that vaping while driving is not a clear-cut crime in Arizona. But there are a few situations in which it can become a legal matter.
We will talk about Arizona’s vaping laws and give you some tips on how to stay safe and avoid getting in trouble in this blog.
Vaping While Driving: What Arizona Law Says
Vaping while driving is not directly against the law in Arizona. This means that you will not automatically get a fine or other punishment for using an e-cigarette while driving.
But the laws about driving while distracted and driving under the influence (DUI) are still in effect, and they can affect people who vape while driving.
Distracted Driving and Vaping
In Arizona, it is illegal to drive while distracted, especially when the driver is doing something that takes their attention away from the road.
It is illegal to text, talk on the phone without a hands-free device, and do other things that take your attention away from the road.
Even though vaping is not listed, a police officer could charge a driver with distracted driving if they see that vaping is making it very hard for them to concentrate.
A police officer might think it is unsafe for you to try to refill your vape device, change the settings, or focus on making big clouds of vapor while you are driving. In this case, the driver could get a ticket for driving the car in an unsafe way.
In Arizona, you can get fines for driving while distracted, and depending on the situation, you may also get points on your record.
Vaping and Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Laws
It is important to know that Arizona has strict laws against driving while high on drugs and alcohol, even though vaping without THC or other substances that make you less alert probably will not get you a DUI charge.
In Arizona, there is no tolerance for drug-impaired driving. This means that even small amounts of THC, the psychoactive part of marijuana, can get you a DUI if it makes you unable to drive.
The risk is high for drivers who vape cannabis products that contain THC. If a police officer thinks you might be impaired, they may give you a sobriety test. If you fail, you could face serious consequences.
Some of these punishments are losing your license, paying a fine, taking a DUI class, or even going to jail, especially if you do it again.
Safety Tips for Vaping While Driving in Arizona
It is best to keep your mind off of driving as much as possible to stay safe and follow the law. If you choose to vape while driving, here are some useful tips:
Avoid Cloud-Chasing: Big vapor clouds can make it hard to see inside the car, which could be dangerous. To keep your view clear, vape as little as possible.
Set Your Device Ahead of Time: If your vape device has settings that can be changed, do so before you start driving so you do not have to fiddle with it while you are on the road.
Taking Breaks: If you need a break to vape, you might want to stop in a safe place. This keeps you from driving while distracted and lets you concentrate on vaping.
Avoid THC While Driving: If you are going to be driving, do not use any THC vape products. They can slow you down and could get you in a lot of trouble if you get pulled over.
Also see:-Is It Illegal to Flip Off a Cop in Washington Here’s What the Law Says