Utah Traffic Offense Glossary
Everything You Need to Know | Provo Criminal Defense Attorney
Are you facing a traffic offense in Utah? At Provo Criminal Defense, we specialize in defending Utah drivers from traffic citations, license suspensions, increased insurance rates, and more. Our comprehensive traffic offense glossary provides clear definitions of key terms and guidance on navigating Utah's traffic laws. This article is written by Utah Traffic Lawyer Jake Gunter.
Common Utah Traffic Terms | Utah Traffic Lawyer
Accident Fee
If you're involved in a traffic accident in Utah, a $30 accident fee applies. This fee may be waived under specific conditions. Traffic offenses involving personal injury or significant property damage can also result in civil lawsuits for personal injury claims.
Bail Forfeiture (Pay Without Court Appearance)
Most Utah traffic citations allow you to pay the fine without appearing in court, known as bail forfeiture. Serious offenses, such as DUI, reckless driving, or speeding over 100 MPH, require a mandatory court appearance.
Utah Bail Schedule
The Utah Bail Schedule provides updated fines and penalties for traffic offenses. This document outlines whether the offense is classified as moving or non-moving, and includes important details like DLD reportability.
BCI Reportable Traffic Offense
Certain traffic violations in Utah are classified as BCI (Bureau of Criminal Identification) reportable, meaning they go on your criminal record. These offenses can have long-term consequences for your driving and criminal record.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
CDL holders are subject to stricter regulations, and plea in abeyance agreements do not protect them. Points and convictions will still appear on a CDL holder's record.
Speeding Over 100 MPH (Enhanced Penalties)
Since 2022, Utah has imposed enhanced penalties for drivers caught speeding over 100 MPH, including higher fines and more severe legal consequences.
SR-22 Insurance
Drivers convicted of DUI or operating a vehicle without insurance may be required to carry SR-22 insurance, which comes with significantly higher premiums for up to three years.
Non-Resident Violator Compact (NRVC)
Utah participates in the NRVC, meaning if you fail to appear in court for a traffic violation, your home state may suspend your license. However, some states, like California and Oregon, do not participate in this compact.
Moving Violations vs. Non-Moving Violations
Moving violations, such as speeding or running a red light, can increase your insurance rates and add points to your driving record. Non-moving violations, like expired registration, do not add points to your record.
Mandatory Court Appearance
Traffic tickets involving personal injury or death require a mandatory court appearance, regardless of the violation.
Plea in Abeyance (PIA)
For non-CDL drivers, a plea in abeyance can prevent points from being added to your record. CDL drivers, however, do not benefit from PIAs. Out-of-state drivers should check how their state handles PIAs.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a Class B misdemeanor and carries 80 points on your record. It often involves speeds over 105 MPH or multiple violations in a short period. For drivers under 21, accumulating 80 points can result in license suspension.
Utah Driving Points System
- Drivers Under 21: 70+ points within three years may result in a license suspension for 1-12 months.
- Drivers 21 and Older: 200+ points within three years may lead to a suspension of 3-12 months.
Consequences of Traffic Offenses in Utah
- License Suspension Without Conviction: In some cases, such as accidents causing injury or death, your license can be suspended even without a criminal conviction. Learn more about this in our detailed guide on Utah Driving Suspensions.
- Traffic Offense Arrest Warrants: Warrants may be issued for felonies or Class A and B misdemeanors, especially those involving DUI, reckless driving, or assault.
Common Mistakes in Utah Traffic Law
- Two Reckless Driving Convictions in 12 Months: This results in an automatic license suspension.
- Reckless Driving for Drivers Under 21: Accumulating 80 points from reckless driving leads to suspension for provisional drivers.
- Point Limit: Know your total points before pleading guilty. For adults, 200 points is the limit, and for under-21 drivers, it’s 70 points.
- PIA for CDL Drivers: CDL drivers cannot avoid points through plea in abeyance agreements.
- Out-of-State Drivers and PIAs: Drivers from other states may face different consequences from PIAs.
- School Zone Speeding: Speeding over 30 MPH in a school zone can lead to mandatory crosswalk duty.
- Accidents and Injuries: Accidents causing injuries may result in criminal restitution, which is not dischargeable in bankruptcy.
Need Help With a Traffic Offense in Utah?
If you’re facing a traffic violation, contact Utah Traffic Lawyer Jake Gunter at (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation. We’ll provide expert guidance and help you navigate Utah’s traffic laws.