2011 Utah Code
Title 41 Motor Vehicles
Chapter 6a Traffic Code
Section 1716 Prohibition on using a handheld wireless communication device for text messaging communication while operating a moving motor vehicle -- Penalties.

41-6a-1716. Prohibition on using a handheld wireless communication device for text messaging communication while operating a moving motor vehicle -- Penalties.
(1) As used in this section:
(a) (i) "Handheld wireless communication device" means a handheld device used for the transfer of information without the use of electrical conductors or wires.
(ii) "Handheld wireless communication device" includes a:
(A) wireless telephone;
(B) personal digital assistant;
(C) pager; or
(D) text messaging device.
(b) "Text messaging" has the same meaning as defined in Section 76-4-401.
(2) Except as provided in Subsection (3), a person may not use a handheld wireless communication device for text messaging or electronic mail communication while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state.
(3) Subsection (2) does not prohibit a person from using a handheld wireless communication device while operating a moving motor vehicle:
(a) during a medical emergency;
(b) when reporting a safety hazard or requesting assistance relating to a safety hazard;
(c) when reporting criminal activity or requesting assistance relating to a criminal activity;
(d) when providing roadside or medical assistance; or
(e) 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.
(4) A person convicted of a violation of this section is guilty of a:
(a) class C misdemeanor; or
(b) class B misdemeanor if the person:
(i) has also inflicted serious bodily injury upon another as a proximate result of using a handheld wireless communication device for text messaging or electronic mail communication while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state; or
(ii) has a prior conviction under this section, that is within three years of:
(A) the current conviction under this section; or
(B) the commission of the offense upon which the current conviction is based.