Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:

• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.

• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.

• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.

• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.

For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving

In Utah, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. Utah Code Section 41-6a-1716 states that it is illegal for a person to use a handheld mobile telephone to write, send, or read a written communication while operating a vehicle. This includes texting, emailing, and instant messaging. However, the law does allow for voice-operated or hands-free use of a wireless telephone. Additionally, Utah has specific restrictions for novice drivers. According to Utah Code Section 41-6a-1715, drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to use a cell phone at all while driving, except in emergencies. This includes both handheld and hands-free devices. There are no specific Utah laws that address school bus drivers' use of cell phones, but they are generally held to higher standards of conduct given their role in transporting children. Violations of these laws can result in fines and potentially other penalties.