Utah Traffic Violations

Moving Violations

Moving violations in Utah occur while a vehicle is in motion and are generally considered more severe due to the increased risk of accidents. Moving violations in the state include:

• Running red lights or stop signs
• Improper lane changes or failure to signal
• Driving too slowly or impeding traffic by driving below the minimum speed limit

Non-Moving Violations

Meanwhile, non-moving violations in Utah typically occur when a vehicle is stationary, usually less severe, and often result in fines but usually don't add points to a driver's record. Examples include:

• Illegal parking, such as in handicapped zones, without proper authorization
• Expired vehicle registration
• Equipment violations (e.g., broken tail lights)

Utah Felony Traffic Violations

Felony traffic violations in Utah represent the most severe traffic offenses, often involving significant harm or injury to others. These violations can have serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.

Notable examples of Utah felony traffic violations include:

• Automobile homicide (causing death while driving under the influence)
• Fleeing from law enforcement resulting in death or serious bodily injury
• Repeat offenses of certain serious traffic violations

Felonies are classified into different degrees, with first-degree being the most serious. According to Utah Code Section 76-3-301, the fine schedule for felony offenses in Utah is as follows:

• First-degree felony: up to $10,000
• Second-degree felony: up to $10,000
• Third-degree felony: up to $5,000

Meanwhile, the prison sentences per Utah Code Section 76-3-203 are as follows:

• First-degree felony: five years to life
• Second-degree felony: 1 to 15 years
• Third-degree felony: 0 to 5 years

Utah Traffic Misdemeanors

Traffic violations under the misdemeanor category in Utah are less severe than felonies but can still result in significant penalties. These can include fines, jail time, and other consequences. Here are some examples of Utah traffic misdemeanors:

• Driving with a defective vehicle
• Texting while driving
• Racing on highways (also known as "Speed Contests")

Misdemeanors traffic offenses are classified into three categories: Class A, B, and C, with Class A being the most serious. According to the state's law, the maximum fines for these are as follows:

• Class A misdemeanor: up to $2,500
• Class B misdemeanor: up to $1,000
• Class C misdemeanor: up to $750

In the meantime, the jail time for traffic misdemeanors according to Utah Code Section 76-3-204 is as follows:

• Class A misdemeanor: up to 364 days
• Class B misdemeanor: up to six months
• Class C misdemeanor: up to 90 days

Utah Traffic Infractions

In Utah, traffic infractions are categorized into two main classes: Class C and Class B. While these violations are considered criminal offenses, they are less severe than misdemeanors or felonies.

Class C infractions include minor offenses such as driving slightly over the speed limit, operating a vehicle with an expired registration, or failing to signal. More serious Class B infractions encompass offenses like hit-and-run accidents or driving under the influence (DUI).

The state's legal system prescribes various penalties for infractions, which may include fines up to $750, forfeiture of property, mandated compensatory service, or disqualification from certain privileges. Often, a combination of these punishments is applied, tailored to the specific offense and circumstances.

Suspended License Violations

In Utah, driving with a suspended license is considered a severe offense, as outlined in Utah Code Section 53-3-221. If a driver is caught operating a vehicle with a suspended license, they will face a Class C misdemeanor charge. This offense can result in fines and up to 90 days in jail.

For individuals who repeatedly drive with a suspended license, the penalties become more severe. They may face extended periods of license suspension, higher fines, and potential vehicle impoundment.

Speeding Violations

According to Utah Code Section 41-6a-601, speeding is defined as driving faster than what is reasonable and safe given the current conditions. This means drivers must always consider factors such as:

• Intersections and railroad crossings
• Curves and hill crests
• Narrow or winding roads
• Pedestrians, traffic, weather, and road conditions

Unless otherwise posted, the general speed limits that drivers should follow are:

• 20 mph in school zones
• 25 mph in urban areas
• 55 mph in other areas

Note that speed limits may be adjusted based on road signs or conditions. Even if a driver is traveling at or below the posted limit, they can still be cited if the speed is deemed unsafe for the conditions. Additionally, when emergencies occur, the governor has the authority to change speed limits statewide.

Meanwhile, the penalties for speeding vary depending on how much the driver exceeds the limit. Those driving at 100 mph or more may face a fine that is at least 150% of the standard amount.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents are classified as significant traffic violations. Under Utah Code Section 41-6a-401, drivers are required to stop and stay at the scene of an accident. If an individual leaves the scene after only causing property damage, it is a Class A misdemeanor. This can result in up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,500.

If the accident causes injury or death, the charge becomes a third-degree felony, with penalties of up to five years in prison and fines up to $5,000.

Utah DUI Laws

DUI is considered a major traffic violation in Utah. Hence, the state enforces some of the strictest DUI laws in the U.S. under the Alcohol-Restricted Driver Information (ARD) framework. Key aspects of these laws include:

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit

Utah has implemented one of the strictest BAC limits in the nation, reducing it to 0.05% on December 30, 2018. This change reflects the state's dedication to minimizing alcohol-related traffic incidents and improving road safety.

For drivers, this means they must be particularly cautious, as the lower BAC threshold increases the likelihood of legal consequences for impaired driving. Although less severe than a full DUI charge, this offense still carries substantial penalties and can significantly affect a driver's record.

Ignition Interlock Restriction Information (IID)

Individuals convicted of DUI must install an IID in their vehicle. This device prevents the car from starting if the driver's breath alcohol concentration exceeds a predetermined limit. The IID requirement lasts for three years for drivers under 21, while it is required for 18 months for those 21 and older.

Failure to comply with IID regulations or detect a BAC above the set limit can lead to additional citations and penalties.

DUI with Serious Bodily Injury

When a DUI results in severe bodily injury to another person, it is classified as a third-degree felony. This serious charge can lead to a potential sentence of up to five years in prison and a fine of $5,000. The severity of this offense reflects its potential impact on victims and the legal system.

Implied Consent and Metabolite DUI

Utah operates under an implied consent law, meaning that refusing a chemical test for DUI can result in an automatic license suspension of 18 months for a first refusal.

Additionally, the state has specific rules regarding metabolite DUI. A person can be charged with DUI if any measurable amount of controlled substance metabolites are present in their system, even if they are not visibly impaired.

Paying the Fine

For minor infractions, such as parking violations, a court appearance is not required. These can typically be resolved by paying the fine online or mailing the bail amount to the court listed on the citation.

Additionally, many courts offer in-person payments. During office hours, individuals can visit the local traffic violations bureau or courthouse to pay using debit or credit cards, checks, money orders, or cash.

Contesting the Ticket

If individuals choose to contest the ticket, they must appear in court, enter a "not guilty" plea, and may either negotiate with the prosecutor or proceed to a trial. The potential outcomes of contesting a ticket include:

• Dismissal of the citation
• Reduced fines
• Other penalties
• Deferred disposition

Requesting a Plea in Abeyance

Additionally, requesting a "Plea in Abeyance" allows individuals to plead guilty or no contest while agreeing to certain conditions, such as completing a defensive driving course. If these conditions are met, the charge may be dismissed.

Appeals

If the individuals are dissatisfied with the justice court's decision, they have the option to appeal to the district court, where the case will be retried in its entirety, known as a "de novo" trial.

To initiate this process, individuals should prioritize filing a Notice of Appeal form with the justice court within 28 days of the court's order or judgment, as outlined in Utah Code Section 78A-7-118.

For more detailed guidance, individuals can access the process for appealing a justice court decision in Utah Rule of Criminal Procedure 38.