Explaining the Utah Cell Phone & Driving Law

Utah Code: Title 41/Chapter 6A/Section 1716:

• Except as provided in Subsection

A person may not use a handheld wireless communication device while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state manually to:

• • Write, send or read a written communication, including:
    • A text message
    • An instant message
    • Electronic mail
    • Dial a phone number
    • Access the Internet;
    • View or record video
    • Enter data into a handheld wireless communication device

The subsection does not prohibit a person from using a handheld wireless communication device while operating a moving motor vehicle:

• When using a handheld communication device for voice communication;
• To view a global positioning or navigation device or a global positioning or navigation application;
• During a medical emergency;
• When reporting a safety hazard or requesting assistance relating to a safety hazard;
• When reporting criminal activity or requesting assistance relating to criminal activity;
• When used by a law enforcement officer or emergency service personnel acting within the  course and scope of the law enforcement officer’s or emergency service personnel’s employment; or

To operate:

• Hands-free or voice-operated technology; or
• A system that is physically or electronically integrated into the motor vehicle.

Our Summary

Once you break it down, it’s not that complicated. The main emphasis of the Utah cell phone & driving law is to entirely eliminate data entry while driving; that means no typing. No typing a text, email, or even a phone number. It also bans surfing the web and recording or viewing a video. However, Utah drivers can still answer calls, make calls without dialing, and use their GPS.