Being ‘stupid’ driver comes at price

PHOENIX — For any driver who can’t resist the urge to drive past barricades into a flooded area, keep the checkbook handy.

Arizona’s ‘stupid motorist law’ has been in place since 1995. If a driver ignores the safety measures in place there’s a good chance they will be cited and fined up to $2,000. And they could get tagged for the cost of the rescue.

Thursday morning, Scottsdale fire crews had to rescue two people from a van that was stranded in several feet of water in the Indian Bend Wash.

The driver went around barricades and ignored flashing signs. Her passenger was a man in a wheelchair.

“Folks continue to go around those barricades and they continue to get stuck and get into positions that are not only dangerous to themselves but, obviously, everyone around them,” said Phoenix Fire Deputy Chief Frank Salomon.

Valley firefighters carried out several water rescues in the morning. Cost for emergency personnel at a water rescue starts around $4,000.

The Thursday morning rescue in Scottsdale involved only a ladder truck. Had the rescue required a helicopter, the bill would be an additional $2,000 per hour.

Related

A man accused of orchestrating Tupac Shakur’s 1996 killing is on trial. Here’s what to knowCongressional Democrats launch probe into efforts to deport US military members and their familiesAs AI grips world, the thrill of collecting vintage computers is growingWisconsin, Minnesota primaries are next to feature progressive clash with Democratic establishmentFatal collision in Mesa shuts down Stapley Drive in both directionsSevere weather with dust, rain rolls into Valley Sunday night