Arizona Department of Public Safety Troopers investigated seven fatal collisions statewide over the past week, in which eight people died. In the last 24 hours there have been three fatal collisions involving commercial vehicles along Interstate 40 and State Route 98. One of those fatal collisions involved a wrong-way vehicle.
While every fatal collision is being investigated separately, there is a common element to nearly all of them – speed not reasonable and prudent for the conditions. As of June 26, 2016, 44 of the 114 fatal collisions in 2016, have been a result of speed. It’s critically important for drivers to obey posted speed limits. In addition, drivers should be well rested before taking to the road. 
While speed continues to be one of the main factors in fatal collisions, unrestrained occupants continue to be a part of fatal collisions. In 2016, 42% (48 collisions) of the fatal collisions on Arizona highways have had an unrestrained occupant suffer fatal injuries.
Furthermore, drivers should never drive while impaired or distracted and always be cognizant of other vehicles.
Arizona has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country, yet impaired driving persists. If you plan to drink, don’t drive; use a designated driver. 
“The spike in traffic fatalities over the past week has had very tragic consequences for the loved ones of those who died,” said AZDPS Lt. Col Daniel Lugo, Assistant Director of the Highway Patrol Division. “It is critical for motorists to drive as safely as possible while adhering to traffic laws and always wearing safety restraints. We want drivers to take responsibility for their passenger’s compliance with seatbelt laws.”