A commonly asked question of law enforcement, many drivers wonder if it is illegal to honk a car horn unnecessarily or in cases where it distracts other commuters. We've all heard drivers go a little crazy with their car horns: honking for long periods of time out of impatience, anger, because they're simply clowning around, or even when they're trying to get the attention of someone inside a house or apartment.

According to Arizona law 28-954, "If reasonably necessary to ensure the safe operation of a motor vehicle, the driver shall give an audible warning with the driver's horn but shall not otherwise use the horn when on a highway."

The law clearly states that horns should be used primarily for safety, but if used otherwise could you receive a ticket? The short answer is yes, though authorities say that it's left to the discretion of the officer. A driver may be given a citation for "failure to use horn properly / unlawful use of a warning device" if a police officer catches them using their horn to "yell" at another driver or if the horn is being used excessively for any reason other than safety.

All in all, it's best to hold your honk unless you are trying to warn another driver of a dangerous situation. Additionally, Arizona law says police lights and sirens are not permitted on your average passenger car or SUV.