What You Need to Know About Texting and Driving in Utah

It can be tempting to respond to a text while sitting in traffic or waiting at a red light. However, this seemingly harmless moment puts you on the wrong side of the law—and potentially in grave danger. Each year, distracted driving claims hundreds of lives across the United States, and texting is one of the most dangerous forms of distraction. Here is what you need to know about texting and driving in Utah. 

Is Texting and Driving Illegal in Utah?

Yes, texting and driving is strictly prohibited in Utah. Utah Code § 41-6a-1716(2) forbids using a handheld wireless communication device while operating a moving vehicle on Utah highways. This extends beyond texting to include dialing phone numbers, watching videos, accessing the internet, using instant messaging services, recording videos, sending emails, and entering or retrieving any data from the device.

You can still use voice-activated features while driving. Utah law also permits certain exceptions for phone use, including viewing GPS navigation, talking on the phone using hands-free devices, and reporting emergencies, criminal activities, or safety hazards.

Reach out to our auto accident attorney in St. George if you’ve been involved in an accident due to someone texting and driving dangerously.

What Are the Penalties for Texting and Driving?

If you are caught texting and driving in Utah, you can face serious consequences. Violating this law can lead to up to three months in jail, fines up to $750, and a misdemeanor on your record. The penalties escalate if your actions result in injury or death, becoming a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000.

Beyond criminal penalties, you may also face civil liability. Utah operates under a no-fault insurance system, but victims who suffer serious injuries can step outside this system to pursue insurance claims or lawsuits against at-fault drivers. If the victim’s medical bills exceed $3,000 or their injuries involve permanent disability, impairment, disfigurement, or dismemberment, you may be on the hook financially for their damages.

What Should You Do If You Are Hit by a Distracted Driver?

Being struck by a driver who was texting can leave you injured, confused, and unsure of your rights. Take these essential steps immediately after an accident to protect yourself and your future legal claim:

• Seek medical attention, even for seemingly minor injuries.
• Report the accident to the police and request a copy of the report.
• Document everything, including photos of the scene and vehicles.
• Gather witness information, especially from those who saw the driver texting.
• Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements without legal counsel.
• Track all medical treatments and expenses related to your injuries.
• Contact a Utah car accident attorney to discuss your next steps.

Discuss Your Next Steps with a Utah Car Accident Lawyer

When you are hit by a distracted driver, the aftermath can quickly become overwhelming. In these situations, a Utah car accident attorney can help determine if your case qualifies to step outside the no-fault system and pursue additional compensation from the distracted driver. Your lawyer can also obtain evidence like cell phone records that prove the other driver was texting, strengthen your claim through expert testimony, and negotiate effectively with insurance companies that typically try to minimize payouts.

Do not let a distracted driver’s negligence leave you with financial troubles. Contact a St. George personal injury attorney who will fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.