Utah Texting and Driving Laws (Utah Code § 41-6a-1716)
Texting while driving is more common than ever — and Utah law takes it seriously. Under Utah Code § 41-6a-1716, it is illegal to manually use a handheld device while operating a moving motor vehicle. This includes:
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Texting
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Emailing
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Dialing a phone number
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Browsing the internet
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Taking photos or video
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Entering data of any kind
Penalties:
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First offense: Class C misdemeanor
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Second offense within 3 years OR any violation causing bodily injury: Class B misdemeanor
The Hidden 3-Month License Suspension Most Drivers Don’t Know About
Few people — including some judges and attorneys — realize that Utah law allows a judge to suspend your license for 3 months after a texting-while-driving conviction.
Under Utah Code § 53-3-218(6), a sentencing judge may impose a three-month driver license suspension following a conviction for violating the texting-while-driving statute.
This suspension authority is rarely used because it’s buried outside the usual suspension statutes, such as:
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Non-DUI suspension laws: Utah Code § 53-3-220
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DUI-related suspensions: Utah Code § 41-6a-505
In more than 21 years of criminal defense practice, I have never seen a judge impose this suspension — but it remains legally available and is a risk every defendant should understand.
What a Texting-and-Driving Charge Really Means for You
A texting-while-driving accusation in Utah carries more consequences than many people expect. A conviction may result in:
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A misdemeanor criminal record
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Higher penalties for future offenses
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A possible 3-month judge-ordered license suspension
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Increased insurance premiums
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Negative effects on employment and driving privileges
Charged With Texting and Driving in Utah?
If you’re facing a texting-while-driving charge, you need an experienced defense attorney who understands both the common and lesser-known statutes that can affect your license and record.
Call or text Utah criminal defense attorney Jake Gunter for immediate help. With more than 21 years of experience and thousands of cases defended, I can help you navigate the process, fight your charge, and protect your driving privileges.
Utah Criminal Defense Lawyer — Jake Gunter
Learn More About Criminal Defense Lawyer Jake Gunter
For additional insights on Criminal Defense Law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:
- Meet Jake Gunter – Learn more about Jake Gunter's background, experience, and dedication to helping clients throughout Utah.
- How to Choose a Utah Personal Injury Attorney – This video offers guidance on selecting the right personal injury attorney to ensure you receive effective representation.
- What Jake Gunter Does and Who He Represents – Discover the types of cases Jake Gunter handles and how he advocates for the rights of injured individuals statewide.
These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.