Utah § 6a-1716 - Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle -- Exceptions -- Penalties.
Full text of Utah Utah Code § 6a-1716 — Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle -- Exceptions -- Penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6a-1716. Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle -- Exceptions -- Penalties.
Effective 5/4/2022 41-6a-1716.
Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle -- Exceptions -- Penalties.
(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.
Section 6a-1716 ("Prohibition on using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle -- Exceptions -- Penalties.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Utah § 6a-1716?
A common citation format is "Utah Code § 6a-1716" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Utah law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.
How does Utah § 6a-1716 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
