Utah § 6a-601 - Speed regulations -- Safe and appropriate speeds at certain locations -- Prima facie speed limits -- Emergency power of the governor.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 6a-601 — Speed regulations -- Safe and appropriate speeds at certain locations -- Prima facie speed limits -- Emergency power of the governor., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 6a-601. Speed regulations -- Safe and appropriate speeds at certain locations -- Prima facie speed limits -- Emergency power of the governor.

Effective 5/4/2022
41-6a-601.  Speed regulations -- Safe and appropriate speeds at certain locations -- Prima facie speed limits -- Emergency power of the governor.
(1) A person may not operate a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing conditions, giving regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing, including when:
(a) approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad grade crossing;
(b) approaching and going around a curve;
(c) approaching a hill crest;
(d) traveling upon any narrow or winding roadway;
(e) traveling in, through, or approaching other hazards that exist due to pedestrians, other traffic, weather, or highway conditions; and
(f) the speed causes the person to fail to maintain control of the vehicle or stay within a single lane of travel.
(2) Subject to Subsections (1) and (4) and Sections 41-6a-602 and 41-6a-603, the following speeds are lawful:
(a) 20 miles per hour in a reduced speed school zone as defined in Section 41-6a-303;
(b) 25 miles per hour in any urban district; and
(c) 55 miles per hour in other locations.
(3) Except as provided in Section 41-6a-604, any speed in excess of the limits provided in this section or established under Sections 41-6a-602 and 41-6a-603 is prima facie evidence that the speed is not reasonable or prudent and that it is unlawful.
(4)
(a) A violation of Subsection (1) is an infraction.
(b) For an individual convicted of a speed violation where the individual was operating at a speed of 100 miles per hour or more, the court shall impose a fine not less than 150% of the suggested fine in the uniform fine schedule authorized in Section 76-3-301.5 and in effect at the time of the citation.
(5) The governor by proclamation in time of war or emergency may change the speed limits on the highways of the state.


Amended by Chapter 176, 2022 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 6a-601

What does Utah Code § 6a-601 cover?

Section 6a-601 ("Speed regulations -- Safe and appropriate speeds at certain locations -- Prima facie speed limits -- Emergency power of the governor.") 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-601?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 6a-601" (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-601 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.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.