Speed limit

A batch of new Arizona traffic laws took effect Sept. 12, the standard start date for legislation passed during this year's session. The changes address distracted driving, motorcycle lane splitting, vehicle booting, and driver's license photo requirements.

House Bill 2109 raises fines for repeat distracted-driving offenders, increasing penalties for a second phone-use violation to a flat $400, up from the previous $150-$250 range, and adds a $150 fee if a distracted-driving crash involves a motorcyclist. House Bill 2941 makes certain lane-splitting maneuvers a Class 2 misdemeanor classified as reckless driving, though motorcyclists may still pass safely between lanes under specific speed and road conditions. Repeat offenders risk license suspension or jail time. Senate Bill 1205 establishes statewide standards for vehicle booting companies, capping fees, restricting practices, and barring booting of emergency vehicles or occupied cars. Separately, drivers now must update their license photos every 16 years instead of 12.