Driving in Utah for the first time can be a tremendous sensory experience. However, when you consider all the different conditions and terrains you might face throughout such a multi-faceted journey in this part of the country, you need to know the rules you will be expected to abide by.
Although plenty of the state’s driving laws are in line with national standards, you should know that Utah has a few regulations that might surprise newcomers to the area.
If you have managed to get yourself a car sorted, by searching bad credit car dealerships Utah, for instance, you will want to be able to drive safely within the law, so that you can avoid any fines or brushes with the law.
To help you stay safe and avoid fines, here are some really important driving laws every first-time driver in Utah should know.
Utah’s BAC limit Is stricter than most
One of the critical points to remember is that Utah has the strictest DUI law in the country. While most states set the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit at 0.08%, Utah sets its limit at 0.05%.
This means even a moderate amount of alcohol consumption could put you over the legal limit. Bottom line, If you plan on drinking, it’s best to avoid the risk of driving altogether.
The consequences and penalties for DUI in Utah are severe. On top of fines, and suspension of your license, you could even face the prospect of jail time, even if it’s your first offense.
Pedestrians take priority at crosswalks
Utah law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. This applies even if there are no traffic lights or stop signs.
If you don’t observe this legal protocol, failing to yield to pedestrians could not only create a dangerous scenario, but it could also lead to a hefty citation.
Watch your cell phone use while driving
For the avoidance of doubt, what you need to know is that texting and driving is illegal in Utah. With this in mind, the state enforces a hands-free law for all electronic devices.
In reality, this means you can’t hold your phone while making calls or using GPS. Instead, you must use Bluetooth, or speakerphone, while your device remains mounted.
If you are a first-time driver in Utah, make sure your phone is set up hands-free before hitting the road.
Know when to use your headlights
Utah law requires drivers to use headlights from sunset to sunrise. Also, any time when visibility is reduced by rain, snow, or fog, you also need to have your lights on.
A good way to stick to this rule is if your windshield wipers are on, your headlights should be on too. If you don’t observe these legal requirements, you could easily get a citation for not using your headlights, even during daylight hours.
Don’t attempt lane splitting
If you’re on a motorcycle, don’t do any lane splitting. Riding between lanes of traffic is not legal in Utah. While it’s allowed in some other states like, Utah prohibits it, and doing so can result in a fine.
Every person in your car needs to use a seat belt
Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in your car, including backseat passengers. Law enforcement can stop and ticket you solely for not wearing a seat belt. In addition, children under eight must be strapped into an appropriate car seat or booster seat.
Don’t worry, driving in Utah is generally straightforward, but knowing these specific laws can help you avoid fines and stay safe on the road.