Radar detectors refer to electronic gadgets which help in detecting radio or laser waves that are emitted by the Utah Police Department in order to enforce speed laws within their jurisdiction.
If you are a person who travels regularly, chances are that at some point, you have contemplated purchasing a radar detector to avoid getting speeding tickets.
However, before purchasing such a gadget, there are certain things which you should be aware of. The good news is Utah is quite permissive compared to other states like Virginia, where using a radar detector is strictly banned.
But wait—there’s more! Being legal doesn’t mean no rules will be applicable. This guide covers almost everything that Utah drivers should know before placing a radar detector on their car’s windshield.
Are Radar Detectors Legal In Utah?
Yes, radar detectors are legal to use in standard and private passenger vehicles. Whether you drive a sedan, a truck, or a motorcycle, you can use this device to alert you whenever you are approaching police radar.
● For Personal Vehicles
You don’t need any special registration to use a radar detector in your personally owned vehicle. It will help drivers to avoid speeding tickets by not violating any rules of the state. In short, what you need is to purchase this device, install it in your car, and use it when driving along Utah roads.
● For Commercial Vehicles
Remember, commercial vehicles have a different story. Under Utah law, it’s illegal to use radar detectors if you drive a vehicle for commercial purposes. Commercial vehicles may include semi-trucks, delivery vehicles, or any kind of vehicle that is used to transport goods in the course of business.
All in all, if you drive for a living like trucking or ride-sharing, it’s wise to leave your radar detector at home. Because it can lead to heavy fines and legal complications for both you and your employer if you get caught using one on the highway.
Does Using A Detector Affect A Speeding Ticket?
No! Using a detector doesn’t stop a police officer from issuing you a speeding ticket.
Actually, it may even negatively affect the discretion of the officer issuing the signal, and there is a low probability that he will simply give you a verbal warning. In case speeding results in an accident or injury, speaking with a car accident attorney can help you understand your legal options.
Here are some possible Utah-based scenarios you might face:
- You cannot use the failure of a radar detector to alert as a valid excuse in your defense to dismiss the fine charge in court.
- Possessing a radar detector that is near military bases can even lead to separate fines or even confiscation of the device.
- Utah uses fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters for air patrol as well that clock your speed over timed distances, leaving your radar detector completely useless.
- They also use laser guns due to the precision of their beams since the device in your car is likely to trigger once a laser beam hits your car.
What Are The Penalties For Violating The Law?
Because Utah allows you to use standard radar detectors, you won’t legally face penalties just because you have one on your windshield.
However, important laws and consequences of breaking them are discussed below:
State Infraction
According to the laws of Utah 41-6a-604, operating a vehicle with a device or a system that is capable of interfering with or interrupting the operation of radar systems that are typically utilized by the police officers in Utah is regarded as an infraction in Utah.
The penalty for the offense is a fine not exceeding $750. The fine imposed on the person committing the offense for the first time ranges from $50 to $250. Fortunately, infractions do not have any imprisonment period.
However, if the device you are using jammers the active frequencies used for FCC controlled radar technology, then this will be considered a federal issue and the penalty could involve 5 year jail term plus $50,000 fine.
Windshield Obstruction Tickets
Under Utah Code 41-6aa-1635, you cannot mount a radar detector anywhere that blocks your view of the road. Which means a police officer can still write you a windshield obstruction ticket if you place your perfectly working and legal device in the way of your sight while driving.
Fortunately, it’s just a minor traffic infraction that is settled with a small fine and an instruction to clear your dashboard.
Commercial Vehicles
Under federal regulations 49 CFR 392.71, when a commercial vehicle, especially those over 10,000 pounds, breaks the radar detector law, it automatically becomes a big deal. Because driving heavy vehicles also comes with heavy rules.
By virtue of government rules, radar detectors cannot be operated by commercial vehicles at any time whatsoever. Therefore, regardless of the fact that you have your detector switched off or connected to your vehicle, it is still illegal.
Additionally, you may get in trouble if police officers find a radar jammer in your cab or truck. Consequences include heavy fines that drivers usually need to pay out of their pockets and device confiscation.
5 Tips to Avoid Speeding Tickets
The most reliable way to avoid speeding tickets in Utah is always to drive within a safer range of the speed limit. Safe driving also reduces the risk of serious crashes, including head-on collisions, which can result in severe injuries.
But you can adopt these habits to avoid getting a speeding ticket:
- Use cruise control on highways, but only if road conditions allow you to.
- Watch out for changing speed limits near schools, hospitals, or construction zones.
- Try to leave earlier so you are not tempted to rush on your way.
- Do watch out for your speed while overtaking, while moving downhill or while joining the flow of other vehicles.
- You should always drive slower during bad weather conditions, poor visibility, heavy traffic, or construction work on the road.
Conclusion
If you own a personal vehicle, you can use a radar detector without any legal worry. But if you drive for a living, you should remember detectors are not allowed in commercial vehicles.
Otherwise, you can face heavy fines in the form of speeding tickets from Utah traffic police. However, if you ever get involved in any car accident because of crossing a speed limit, you can contact Cockayne Law to get free legal guidance.
FAQs
Are radar jammers legal in Utah?
No, Utah law strictly prohibits driving a vehicle on a highway with a radar jamming device. It is considered an infraction according to federal law under current Utah Code 41-6a-609.
Can I get a ticket for using a radar detector?
No, because as the use of radar detectors in your own vehicle is legal in Utah, there will be no ticket issued to you for carrying one in your vehicle. But when you attach it to your windshield obstructing your view of the road, you can get a windshield obstruction ticket from Utah traffic police.
Does a radar detector help fight a speeding ticket?
Not necessarily! A radar detector just alerts the driver whenever you step into radio signals emitted by Utah police. This device will not be counted as proof that you were driving within the speed limit.
Can police confiscate a radar detector?
It depends on your situation and applicable law. A police officer can’t confiscate your device just for being there in your personal car. But if you are caught using one in a commercial vehicle, Utah police can confiscate your device because it’s prohibited.
