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November 10, 2022Texting and Driving: What You Should Know before Getting Behind the Wheel
Texting has quickly become a preferred method of communication. With the introduction of texting, many people have taken to skipping the phone calls and simply sending a quick message to get their point across. While texting offers many benefits in the realm of communication, it has come with some major drawbacks, as well.
Laws Against Texting and Driving in Utah
Texting and driving is an unprecedented issue, and despite the laws against it. In Utah, the law prohibits a person from operating their phone while driving for the following reasons:
- Dialing phone numbers
- Sending text messages or emails
- Using an instant messaging applications
- Viewing or recording any videos while driving
- Manually entering any data onto your cell phone while operating a vehicle
This does not include the use of dictation or voice-activated features on your phone. Taking phone calls, using GPS applications, and calling to report an emergency to law enforcement are protected under the law in Utah.
Penalties for Texting While Driving in Utah
At the least, you might be looking at a ticket. But if you are pulled over for texting while driving, you may be convicted of a crime, depending on circumstances.
Fines can cost up to $100, but if someone is seriously injured, then you may be looking at a Class B misdemeanor. This can result in a fine of up to $1000 and potential jail time.
Before You Text and Drive
Here are some important statistics to know when it comes to distracted driving according to the Utah Department of Public Safety as of 2016:
- 5,748 distracted driving accidents were reported
- 3,303 injuries
- 27 deaths
- 9% of car crashes in Utah involved a distracted driver
- 16% had to do with operating a cell phone while driving
- Crashes involving cell phones continue to increase each year
Need Legal Help?
If you or someone you know were pulled over or were involved in a crash for texting and driving, contact Intermountain Legal for legal representation. Our team of highly-skilled experts in law are ready to take on your case. Distracted driving is a common violation, and we can offer our legal advice and services to evaluate your options and give you or someone you know a second chance on the road.
Our team can help defend serious traffic violations in the state of Utah. At Intermountain Legal, we offer a free initial consultation for misdemeanors to begin to advise you on the best course of action. Contact us today to speak with the best legal representation around.
