Barrett-Jackson Car Show in Arizona: What You Need to Know About Common Traffic Charges

This weekend, the Barrett-Jackson Car Show returns to Scottsdale, Arizona, attracting car enthusiasts from all over.

Known for showcasing rare, expensive, and high-performance vehicles, the event is held at WestWorld of Scottsdale, located in the northeast section of the 101 freeway. With so many car enthusiasts gathering in the area, there’s a noticeable increase in traffic enforcement and patrols.

Common Traffic Offenses at the Barrett-Jackson Car Show

As the event attracts high-speed cars and eager drivers, law enforcement ramps up patrols around the Scottsdale area, especially on the 101 freeway. The most common charges that drivers may face during the Barrett-Jackson weekend include:

  • Reckless Driving
  • Aggressive Driving
  • Racing on the Highway
  • Criminal Speeding

If you’re attending the car show or driving through Scottsdale, it’s important to understand these traffic charges and their potential consequences. Here’s what you need to know about each one.

            1. Criminal Speeding in Arizona (ARS 28-701.02)

              Criminal speeding in Arizona occurs when a driver exceeds the speed limit by 20 miles per hour or more. On the 101 freeway, this means driving at 86 mph or higher in a 65 mph zone (or 55 mph if there is construction).
              Under Arizona law, criminal speeding is a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by:

              • Up to 30 days in jail
              • A $500 fine (plus surcharges)

              Drivers caught exceeding the speed limit during the event may face these penalties, so be sure to drive within the posted speed limits to avoid this charge.

            2. Aggressive Driving (ARS 28-695)

              Aggressive driving is often harder for law enforcement to prove, but it can still result in serious consequences. The charge typically involves speeding, unsafe lane changes, following too closely, or failing to obey traffic control devices. A driver can face aggressive driving charges even if they’re not committing criminal speeding.
              Aggressive driving is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona. If convicted, drivers may be required to:

              • Attend an 8-hour traffic survival school in person

              The penalties for aggressive driving can have long-lasting impacts on your driving record and insurance rates.

            3. Racing on the Highway (ARS 28-708)

              Racing on the highway is a serious offense that involves at least two vehicles engaging in a show of speed. Officers often cite racing when they observe two cars downshifting and accelerating together, which indicates an intent to race.
              Penalties for racing on highways include:

              • Impoundment of your vehicle
              • Class 1 misdemeanor charge
              • 8 points on your driving record
              • A $1500 statutory surcharge

              If convicted for a second offense, the charge increases to a Class 6 felony, and you could face:

              • At least 10 days of jail time

              Special task forces dedicated to highway racing surveillance and arrests actively monitor the area, so it’s best to avoid any behavior that could be construed as racing.

            4. Reckless Driving (ARS 28-693)

              Reckless driving is a broad charge in Arizona. It involves driving with reckless disregard for the safety of others. This traffic charge can cover various behaviors, from speeding to aggressive maneuvers on the road.
              Penalties for reckless driving include:

                  • Class 2 misdemeanor for first-time offenders
                  • A possible suspension of your driver’s license for up to 90 days
                  • For second or subsequent convictions, reckless driving becomes a Class 1 misdemeanor, with mandatory jail time and possible license suspension for up to a year.

            What to Do if You’re Charged with One of These Offenses

            If you’re stopped for reckless driving, aggressive driving, racing, or criminal speeding near the Barrett-Jackson Car Show, it’s important to know your rights and options. Legal representation can help you navigate the charges and provide you with a defense strategy.
            At R&R Law Group, we offer free case evaluations and can assist you with unique defenses specific to these traffic charges. Whether you’re facing a charge in Scottsdale, Phoenix, or anywhere else in Arizona, our experienced defense attorneys are here to provide you with Safety, Clarity, and Hope.

            Why Should You Hire an Attorney?

            Facing traffic charges at the Barrett-Jackson Car Show or any time can have serious consequences on your driving record and future. Legal representation can help reduce penalties or even have charges dismissed, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our team; give us a call at (602) 497-3088
            Call R&R Law Group today to schedule your free case evaluation and discuss your options moving forward.\

About the Author: Ryan W. Cummings

Ryan attended the University of Evansville in Indiana where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance and Marketing and was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha. He then received his Juris Doctorate from the Phoenix School of Law where he accelerated his education to graduate early. While at the Phoenix School of Law, Ryan was active within the legal community and was the school’s Student Pro- Bono Coordinator. Ryan also joined the Steering Committee on Arizona Wills for Heroes, a group that writes wills for Police, Fire, EMT, First Responders, Prison and Probation Officers. Ryan is still part of the Steering Committee and actively participates in Wills for Heroes.