What You Should Know
Changing lanes while driving is something most of us do without much thought—but what about while passing through an intersection? It’s a question many Arizona drivers ask, especially after receiving a traffic ticket or being involved in a car accident. So, is it actually illegal to switch lanes in an intersection in Arizona?
Let’s break it down.
What Arizona Law Says About Lane Changes in Intersections
Arizona law doesn’t explicitly state that changing lanes within an intersection is illegal. However, drivers are required to maintain their lane and drive safely, according to ARS §28-729, which governs lane usage and turning movements.
This means:
- You must signal before changing lanes.
- You must ensure the movement is safe and doesn’t affect other vehicles.
- Changing lanes within the intersection could be deemed unsafe or illegal if it leads to an accident or interferes with traffic.
While you may not find a statute that says “you can’t change lanes in an intersection,” law enforcement and judges may still cite you for improper lane usage or reckless driving depending on the situation.
Why You Could Get Pulled Over
Many police officers in Scottsdale and other Arizona cities consider it unsafe to change lanes in intersections—especially busy ones. They may issue citations under:
- Failure to drive within a single lane
- Improper turn or movement
- Failure to signal
These citations can lead to points on your license, fines, and higher insurance rates. If a lane change causes a crash, you could also face civil liability or even criminal charges, especially if someone is injured.
Could It Affect a DUI or Traffic Case?
Yes. If you’re pulled over for changing lanes in an intersection, the stop may lead to further investigation—particularly in DUI cases. Officers may use the lane change as a basis to initiate a traffic stop, even if no crash occurred.
At Rideout Law Group, we’ve represented numerous clients who were pulled over for minor traffic issues that escalated into DUI charges or license suspensions.
How to Protect Yourself on Arizona Roads
Here are a few simple tips to avoid legal trouble:
- Avoid changing lanes in intersections unless absolutely necessary.
- Always use your turn signal in advance.
- Check for signage—some intersections prohibit lane changes by sign.
- Drive defensively and maintain safe distances from other vehicles.
What to Do If You Get a Ticket or Are Charged
If you’ve been cited for a traffic violation, or worse, involved in an accident or arrested during a stop related to a lane change, don’t face it alone. These situations can quickly evolve into more serious legal problems.
Our Scottsdale traffic and criminal defense attorneys at Rideout Law Group are ready to protect your rights and challenge the stop if it was unjustified.
📞 Call today for a confidential case review:
- Scottsdale: (480) 584-3328
- Lake Havasu: (928) 854-8181