Each person who gets behind the wheel has certain rights and responsibilities to uphold. Although everyone knows the general safety laws put in place, there are several that may go overlooked for one reason or another. Here are four essential driving laws in Utah that all motorists should know.
1. Child Safety Restraints Are Required.
One of the most important things that any Utah driver should know is that seat belts and safety restraints are required for all passengers in a vehicle. In fact, if anyone under the age of 19 is not appropriately restrained, the driver could receive a citation. Furthermore, the driver assumes responsibility for any passenger who is younger than 16 years old.
In terms of child safety restraints, children up to age 8 (or 57 inches tall) must use a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) approved car seat at all times. Depending on the age, the standard for which seat is most appropriate is usually as follows:
- Children from birth to 3 years old should be in a rear-facing car seat (or until they reach the manufacturer’s height and weight maximum).
- Children aged 4 to 7 should be in a front-facing car seat for as long as possible until they reach the maximum height and weight.
- Once a child outgrows the front-facing car seat (typically around age 7 or 8), they should be fastened into a booster seat with a seat belt.
2. “Slow Down, Move Over.”
If you’ve ever driven on a Utah interstate or major state highway, you’ve likely seen signs urging drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles. These signs are not mere suggestions — they reflect a critical safety law that helps protect the lives of first responders, stranded motorists, and others on the roadside.
In Utah, as in many other states, drivers are legally required to yield the right of way to emergency vehicles. This means moving over to the adjacent lane, if it is safe to do so, when an emergency vehicle is stopped with its lights flashing. If changing lanes isn’t an option due to traffic or road conditions, the law mandates that you slow down significantly, with a recommended reduction of at least 15 mph below the posted speed limit. Creating as much space as possible allows emergency personnel to work in safer conditions and helps prevent potentially deadly accidents.
This law applies to ambulances, fire trucks, police vehicles, and even tow trucks and maintenance vehicles displaying emergency lights. Failing to comply can lead to fines, points on your license, and, more importantly, the endangerment of lives. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference in roadway safety.
3. Texting and Driving is Prohibited.
Texting and driving is one of the most dangerous habits behind the wheel, and Utah takes it seriously. State law strictly prohibits the use of hand-held electronic devices for texting, browsing, video recording, and other manual inputs while driving. This includes smartphones, tablets, and even laptops.
Drivers found in violation may receive a $100 citation for the first offense, with penalties increasing for subsequent violations or if the behavior results in a crash. The law specifically targets actions that involve reading, writing, or sending text messages or emails, entering data, accessing the internet, or manually dialing numbers.
There are a few key exceptions. Drivers may use electronic devices to contact emergency services in situations involving accidents, medical emergencies, or criminal activity. Hands-free and voice-controlled functions are also permitted, including the use of GPS navigation and voice-activated calling. Still, the best practice is to set your devices before you begin driving and to keep your full attention on the road.
Distracted driving can cause serious — even fatal — collisions. Eliminating distractions and focusing on the task of driving is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and others.
4. Motorcycle Riders Under 21 Must Wear a Helmet.
Motorcycles, mopeds, and motor-driven scooters offer a fun and efficient way to travel, but they also come with increased risks. For that reason, Utah law requires that any motorcycle rider or passenger under the age of 21 must wear a helmet. The helmet must meet USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) safety standards, which are designed to provide a high level of protection in the event of a crash.
This requirement doesn’t just apply to motorcycles — it extends to motor-driven vehicles such as electric bicycles, mopeds, and scooters when used on public roads. If a rider under 21 is found without a helmet, they can be cited for an infraction, which may go on their driving record.
While this may not be considered a severe legal offense, the consequences of riding without a helmet can be catastrophic. Head injuries are one of the leading causes of death and serious disability among motorcyclists. Helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by nearly 70%, according to the CDC.
Even if you’re over 21, choosing to wear a helmet is a smart and potentially life-saving decision. Safe riding habits and proper gear can make all the difference in an unexpected moment.
Salt Lake City Personal Injury Attorneys
Whether you’re a vehicle owner, motorcycle rider, or pedestrian, you deserve to have your rights protected. Our team at Steele Adams Hosman is dedicated to helping victims recover damages for the injuries sustained in crashes caused by negligent drivers. Schedule a free consultation and get started on your case today by calling (801) 999-1506 or filling out this short form.
