A recent change in Utah law is significantly impacting how careless driving cases are handled across the state, including right here in Utah County. Under H.B. 24, careless driving has officially been downgraded from a Class C misdemeanor to an infraction.
While this may sound like a minor adjustment, it has major implications for drivers, prosecutors, and the overall legal process. If you have been pulled over in Provo, Orem, or anywhere along the I-15 corridor, understanding this new legal landscape is critical to protecting your driving record.
What Counts as Careless Driving in Utah?
Importantly, the definition of careless driving under Utah Code 41-6a-1715 has not changed. Local law enforcement officers—whether Utah Highway Patrol, Provo Police, or Orem Police—are still actively looking for these behaviors.
You can still be cited if you:
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Commit two or more moving violations within a short, continuous driving sequence (typically covering three miles or less in total distance). For example, running a red light and then making an illegal lane change near BYU campus or on University Parkway.
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Commit a moving violation while distracted by something inside your vehicle, such as:
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Searching for items (e.g., reaching for a dropped phone or wallet)
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Grooming (e.g., fixing hair or makeup in the rearview mirror)
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Adjusting objects unrelated to driving
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It is important to note that you do not have to cause an accident to be cited for careless driving. Simply swerving or speeding while distracted by your morning routine on State Street is enough for an officer to pull you over.
What Changed: Misdemeanor vs. Infraction
The key difference brought by H.B. 24 lies in your legal exposure. Downgrading the offense completely shifts how these cases are processed in local courts like the Provo Justice Court and Orem Justice Court.
Before H.B. 24 (Misdemeanor)
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Criminal charge: Careless driving was officially classified as a crime in the state of Utah.
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Possible court appearance: Drivers often had to physically appear before a judge.
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Potential criminal record: A conviction meant a permanent criminal record, which could surface on background checks for employment or housing in Utah County.
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Higher stakes in prosecution and defense: The risk of jail time (up to 90 days for a Class C misdemeanor) and steep fines meant extensive legal negotiation was often required to protect the driver's record.
Now (Infraction)
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Not a criminal offense: An infraction is a civil traffic violation, not a crime.
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Typically handled like a traffic ticket: In most cases, you can simply pay a fine online or by mail without stepping foot inside a courtroom.
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No criminal record: An infraction does not result in a criminal record.
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Reduced legal penalties: The maximum penalties are capped at fines, entirely removing the threat of jail time for this specific, isolated charge.
Why This Matters for Utah County Drivers
This shift from a misdemeanor to an infraction affects the entire legal lifecycle of a traffic stop:
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How prosecutors charge cases: Prosecutors in Utah County are less bogged down by minor traffic offenses, allowing them to treat these citations as standard tickets rather than criminal cases.
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How attorneys negotiate outcomes: Defense attorneys can more easily negotiate pleas, traffic school, or reductions when the starting charge is already an infraction.
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How cases are resolved in court: In many situations, this change may lead to simpler resolutions and less severe consequences for the average driver.
However, that doesn’t mean a careless driving citation should be taken lightly—especially if it’s tied to other violations (like speeding in a school zone or reckless driving) or part of a broader legal issue.
Does an Infraction Still Affect My Insurance and License?
Absolutely. Even as an infraction, a careless driving ticket will add points to your Utah Driver License. If you accumulate too many points, your license could be suspended. Furthermore, auto insurance companies view careless driving as a major red flag for distracted driving. A single citation can cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket, costing you hundreds of dollars in the long run. This is especially dangerous for CDL holders or those who drive for a living.
Still Facing a Careless Driving Ticket in Orem or Provo?
Even as an infraction, careless driving can still impact your driving record, insurance rates, and overall legal standing. Every case is different, and understanding your options can make a significant difference in how much you pay and what stays on your driving history.
Free Consultation
Don't navigate the Utah County justice system alone. Whether your ticket is in Provo, Orem, Springville, or Lehi, local legal expertise is just a phone call away.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.