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Utah Code Title 41. Motor Vehicles § 41-6a-1716. Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle--Exceptions--Penalties

Current as of January 01, 2025 | Updated by Findlaw Staff

(1) As used in this section:

(a) “Wireless communication device” means:

(i) a cellular phone;

(ii) a portable telephone;

(iii) a text messaging device;

(iv) a personal digital assistant;

(v) a stand-alone computer, including a tablet, laptop, or notebook computer;

(vi) a global positioning receiver;

(vii) a device used to display a video, movie, broadcast television image, or visual image; or

(viii) a substantially similar communication device used to initiate or receive communication, information, or data.

(b) “Wireless communication device” does not include a two-way radio device described in 47 C.F.R. Part 90, 95, or 97, or a functional equivalent.

(2) Except as provided in Subsection (3), an individual may not use a wireless communication device while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state to manually:

(a)(i) write or send a written communication, including:

(A) a text message;

(B) an instant message; or

(C) electronic mail;

(ii) dial a phone number;

(iii) access the internet;

(iv) record video;

(v) take a photograph; or

(vi) enter data into a wireless communication device;

(b) read a written communication, including:

(i) a text message;

(ii) an instant message; or

(iii) electronic mail; or

(c) view a video or photograph.

(3) Subsection (2) does not prohibit an individual from using a wireless communication device while operating a moving motor vehicle:

(a) when using a wireless communication device for voice communication;

(b) to view a global positioning or navigation device or a global positioning or navigation application;

(c) during a medical emergency;

(d) when reporting a safety hazard or requesting assistance relating to a safety hazard;

(e) when reporting criminal activity or requesting assistance relating to a criminal activity;

(f) when used by a law enforcement officer or emergency service personnel acting within the course and scope of the law enforcement officer's or emergency service personnel's employment; or

(g) to operate:

(i) hands-free or voice operated technology; or

(ii) a system that is physically or electronically integrated into the motor vehicle.

(4) An individual convicted of a violation of this section is guilty of a:

(a) class C misdemeanor with a maximum fine of $100; or

(b) class B misdemeanor if the individual:

(i) has also inflicted serious bodily injury upon another as a proximate result of using a wireless communication device in violation of this section while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state; or

(ii) has a prior conviction under this section, that is within three years of:

(A) the current conviction under this section; or

(B) the commission of the offense upon which the current conviction is based.

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Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Utah Code Title 41. Motor Vehicles § 41-6a-1716. Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle--Exceptions--Penalties - last updated January 01, 2025 | https://codes.findlaw.com/ut/title-41-motor-vehicles/ut-code-sect-41-6a-1716/

FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Please verify the status of the code you are researching with the state legislature before relying on it for your legal needs.

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