In Arizona, Exhibition of Speed is defined under A.R.S. § 28-708(A). It refers to operating a vehicle in a manner that shows off speed or acceleration to impress others, often in a reckless or unsafe way—even if no one else is racing.
Exhibition of speed in Arizona involves more than exceeding the speed limit. In fact A.R.S. § 28-708A, expressly prohibits driving a car or participating in any type of :
Certainly drag racing and similar contests are covered under the law, however, there does not have to be more than one vehicle involved. Driving behavior that is commonly prosecuted under this statute includes:
Under ARS 28-708, the main difference between exhibition of speed (such as racing on the highway) and a minor traffic violation is that exhibition of speed is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor. This makes it a criminal offense, and even a first-time conviction can lead to serious consequences such as:
If you’re charged with a second exhibition of speed offense within two years under ARS 28-708, it could be treated as a class 6 felony.
Obviously, this is a much more serious charge, with potential consequences that reflect that classification. Additional charges can also arise if the exhibition of speed leads to physical injuries.
Most tickets for a violation of A.R.S. § 28-708A are not as simple as you might expect. The average ticket is not a response to two vehicles engaged in an obvious drag race on the highway, with friends cheering you on. A skilled Arizona racing on highways attorney understands the nuances of these cases and how to build a strong defense. Below are some examples that show the various ways these charges may appear—and how they can be challenged.
You are pulled over and given a ticket for racing. The officer says he saw you changing lanes and passing cars along with another vehicle, and it was obvious to him that the two of you were engaged in some kind of competition or race. In fact, you were completely unaware of the presence of the other vehicle, and you were just trying to get home in time for a family function. If you were not aware of the other vehicle, there was no racing or speed competition.
You just got a new car, and you’re still getting used to the way it handles. The traffic light turns green and you “burn rubber.” It happened because you were still feeling out the new car and were unfamiliar with how it reacts to pressure on the gas pedal. Nevertheless, you are given a ticket, and the officer says that although no other car was involved, you were showing off. If you did not intend it, you are not guilty of exhibition of speed.
Speeding, in and of itself, is not a violation of the racing law. On the other hand, you do not have to travel beyond the speed limit in order to be cited for exhibition of speed. If you were traveling at or below the speed limit, however, it bolsters the argument that there was no racing, competition, or exhibition involved.
If a plausible defense can be developed, it may lead to a reduction in the charges or a not guilty verdict. In many cases, the mere existence of the possible defense will cause the prosecutor to propose a reduction in the charge in exchange for a guilty plea to the lesser traffic offense.
Racing on highways in Arizona is a serious offense that can quickly lead to criminal charges, even for a first-time violation. Penalties may include heavy fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and possible jail time. With strict enforcement across Phoenix and nearby areas, even a single incident can have lasting consequences.
If you are facing charges, working with a skilled racing on highways attorney is essential. The Phoenix criminal defense attorneys at Feldman Royle Ahl have extensive experience handling vehicular and traffic-related cases, including criminal speeding and more serious offenses. We understand the local legal system and can help build a strong defense to protect your rights.
If you have been charged in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, do not wait. Contact Feldman Royle Ahl today for a free consultation and get trusted legal guidance when it matters most.
At Feldman Royle Ahl, our Phoenix drag racing attorney knows what’s really at stake. You’re not just defending a ticket; you’re protecting your freedom, your reputation, and your future opportunities. Our attorneys for exhibition of speed in Arizona bring a rare combination of courtroom experience, negotiation skill, and insight from years as former prosecutors. We’ve stood on both sides of the courtroom and know exactly how the state builds and breaks its case.
We’ve been in the prosecutor’s seat. Our Phoenix drag racing defense attorney knows how officers write their reports, how the state classifies “speed contests,” and where the evidence often falls apart. That perspective gives our clients an edge from day one.
In Arizona, exhibition of speed case starts with a detailed review of dashcam footage and radar calibration records, including officer statements. We pinpoint inconsistencies and use them to challenge the state’s version of events.
Not every case goes to trial, nor should it. Our speed defense team skillfully negotiates to reduce or dismiss charges when possible, keeping your driving record and insurance rates intact.
From your first consultation, you’ll know where you stand and what comes next. We guide you step-by-step, ensuring you’re informed, protected, and confident throughout the process.
You’ll never be treated like just another case file. We handle each matter with complete confidentiality and a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.

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