Utah car accident laws are governed primarily by Title 41, Chapter 6a of the Utah Code (Rules of the Road) and Title 78B (Civil Liability). Understanding these laws is essential for anyone involved in a crash on Utah roads, because they determine fault, insurance obligations, and your right to compensation.
Updated: July 2026 | Reviewed against current Utah Code
Key Takeaways
- Utah operates under an at-fault insurance system with modified comparative negligence (50% bar rule)
- Drivers must carry minimum liability insurance of 25/65/15 under Utah Code Section 31A-22-302
- Personal injury claims must be filed within 4 years under Section 78B-2-308
- Utah requires personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of at least $3,000 under Section 31A-22-306
- Accidents involving injury, death, or property damage of $2,500+ must be reported under Section 41-6a-401
Utah’s approach to car accident liability balances driver accountability with insurance requirements designed to protect all road users. The state’s legal framework determines who pays when a crash happens and what injured parties must do to recover damages. Whether you live in Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, or a rural part of the state, the same set of statutes applies to every crash on Utah roadways.
What Utah code governs car accident liability?
The primary body of law governing driving conduct and accident liability is Utah Code Title 41, Chapter 6a, often called the Utah Uniform Driver Training Act or the state’s traffic code. This chapter covers everything from right-of-way rules to following distance requirements. Liability for damages is governed by Utah Code Title 78B, which includes the state’s comparative fault statute at Section 78B-5-818. Insurance requirements are detailed in Title 31A, Chapter 22.
Is Utah an at-fault or no-fault state for car accidents?
Utah is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who causes a crash is financially responsible for resulting damages. However, Utah also requires personal injury protection (PIP) under Section 31A-22-306, which means your own insurance pays some of your medical bills regardless of fault. This hybrid approach is sometimes confusing. Your PIP coverage provides up to $3,000 in medical benefits immediately, while the at-fault driver’s liability insurance covers additional damages such as pain and suffering, lost wages beyond PIP limits, and property damage.
What is Utah’s comparative fault rule?
Utah Code Section 78B-5-818 establishes a modified comparative negligence system with a 50% bar. Under this rule, you can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. If you are found 51% or more responsible, you recover nothing. If you are 50% or less at fault, your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you suffer $100,000 in damages but are found 20% at fault, you can recover $80,000. This rule applies to all personal injury lawsuits arising from car accidents in Utah.
What insurance is required to drive in Utah?
Under Utah Code Section 31A-22-302, every driver must carry liability insurance with minimum limits of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $65,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 per accident for property damage (25/65/15). Utah also requires PIP coverage of at least $3,000 under Section 31A-22-306. You must carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times. Failure to maintain insurance can result in license suspension, fines, and impoundment of your vehicle.
How long do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Utah?
Utah Code Section 78B-2-308 gives you four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is the statute of limitations for car accident claims. Property damage claims also follow a four-year window under Utah law. Missing this deadline typically means you lose your right to sue forever. Exceptions exist for minors, who may have additional time, and for cases where the defendant leaves the state. It is critical to consult with a Utah car accident attorney well before the deadline to preserve your claim.
When must you report a car accident in Utah?
Under Utah Code Section 41-6a-401, you must report an accident to law enforcement immediately if it involves injury, death, or property damage of $2,500 or more. A law enforcement officer who investigates the crash must file a written report within 10 days. Drivers involved in reportable accidents must also provide their license, registration, and insurance information to other involved parties. Failure to stop and report a reportable accident can lead to criminal charges including hit-and-run under Section 41-6a-401.5.
Utah Insight: Utah’s unique combination of at-fault liability with mandatory PIP coverage creates a two-layer compensation system. Many drivers do not realize their PIP benefits apply immediately regardless of fault, while the at-fault driver’s liability policy covers the rest. This dual system is different from pure no-fault states and pure at-fault states, making Utah car accident claims particularly nuanced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum car insurance coverage required in Utah?
Utah requires 25/65/15 liability coverage plus $3,000 in PIP. These minimums are set in Utah Code Section 31A-22-302.
Can you sue after a car accident in Utah?
Yes. Utah is an at-fault state under Section 78B-5-818, so you can sue the at-fault driver for damages exceeding your PIP coverage.
What happens if you are partially at fault for a crash in Utah?
Under Utah’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do you need a police report to file an insurance claim in Utah?
Not always, but a police report is strongly recommended, especially for reportable accidents under Section 41-6a-401 involving injury or $2,500+ in damage.
What damages can you recover after a Utah car accident?
You can recover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other out-of-pocket costs from the at-fault driver.
How does PIP insurance work in Utah?
PIP under Section 31A-22-306 pays up to $3,000 in medical expenses regardless of fault. It acts as primary coverage for medical bills following a crash.
What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Utah?
Penalties include fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and potential jail time. You may also be personally liable for all damages if you cause a crash without insurance.
Can uninsured drivers recover damages in Utah?
Uninsured drivers can still pursue claims against at-fault parties, but their own negligence is subject to the 50% comparative fault bar under Section 78B-5-818.
Injured in a car accident in Utah? Jeremy D. Eveland, MBA, JD, can help you navigate the claims process and fight for fair compensation.
Call (801) 613-1472 or visit jeremyeveland.com to schedule a consultation today.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified Utah car accident attorney for advice specific to your situation.
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