Last verified: January 2026. This page reflects current Utah Code Sections 41-6a-401 through 41-6a-403 and applicable penalty classifications.
Table of Contents
Overview of Utah Hit and Run Laws
Under Utah Code Sections 41-6a-401 through 41-6a-403, drivers involved in accidents must stop, exchange information, and render reasonable assistance to injured persons. Knowingly leaving the scene without fulfilling these obligations constitutes a criminal offense, ranging from a Class C misdemeanor for minor property damage to a third-degree felony for serious injury or death.
Quick Summary:
- Unattended vehicle/property: Class C misdemeanor (up to 90 days jail, $750 fine)
- Property damage (knowingly leaving): Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine)
- Injury: Class A misdemeanor (up to 364 days jail, minimum $750 fine)
- Serious bodily injury or death: Third-degree felony (up to 5 years prison, minimum $750 fine)
- Report accidents involving death, injury, or property damage over $2,500 within 10 days
- Utah is a no-fault insurance state
- Statute of limitations: 4 years for personal injury, 3 years for property damage
Primary Statute Reference: Utah Code Sections 41-6a-401 through 41-6a-403
Driver Duties After an Accident
Section 41-6a-401.9 establishes specific obligations for drivers involved in accidents. You must:
- Stop immediately at or near the scene without obstructing traffic more than necessary
- Provide information including your name, address, vehicle registration, phone number, and insurance company name and policy number
- Show your driver’s license upon request by the other party or a peace officer
- Render reasonable assistance to anyone injured, including arranging transportation to a medical facility if requested or clearly necessary
Utah law specifically permits you to transport an injured person to a physician or hospital if the victim requests it or if it is apparent that treatment is necessary. This does not constitute leaving the scene if you report the accident promptly.
Knowledge Requirement
Utah law requires “knowledge” of involvement in an accident. The statute defines knowledge as being aware of the nature of your conduct or circumstances. “Reason to believe” means information from which a reasonable person would believe they may have been involved in an accident. This knowledge requirement can be a potential defense if you were genuinely unaware of your involvement in a collision.
Unattended Vehicle Collisions
Under Section 41-6a-401.7, if you strike an unattended vehicle or property, you must make a reasonable effort to locate the owner. If you cannot find the owner, you may leave a note containing your name, address, registration number, and insurance information in a conspicuous location on the struck property.
Reporting Requirements
Under Section 41-6a-402, you must report any accident that results in death, injury, or property damage exceeding $2,500 within 10 days. Additionally, you should contact law enforcement immediately if the accident results in injury or death. Failure to file a required report is an infraction.
If the driver is unable to report the accident, a passenger in either vehicle may fulfill this reporting obligation.
When Hit and Run Is a Misdemeanor
Leaving the scene of an accident is a misdemeanor under Utah law in the following circumstances:
- Class C misdemeanor: Hitting an unattended vehicle or property and failing to locate the owner or leave a note (Section 41-6a-401.7)
- Class B misdemeanor: Knowingly leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage without exchanging information (Section 41-6a-401)
- Class A misdemeanor: Obstructing traffic unnecessarily or failing to remain at the scene of an accident involving injury (Section 41-6a-401.3)
When Hit and Run Is a Felony
Under Section 41-6a-401.3, leaving the scene of an accident becomes a third-degree felony when:
- The accident results in serious bodily injury (injury creating substantial risk of death or causing permanent disfigurement or disability)
- The accident results in death
Automobile Homicide
Under Section 76-5-207, automobile homicide is a third-degree felony when a driver negligently causes death while:
- Having a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.05 grams or greater
- Being under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely operating a vehicle
Section 76-5-207.8 states that each victim suffering injury, serious injury, or death constitutes a separate offense, regardless of whether the injuries arise from the same driving episode.
Penalties Summary
| Offense | Classification | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Unattended vehicle (no note) | Class C Misdemeanor | 90 days jail, $750 fine |
| Property damage (knowingly leaving) | Class B Misdemeanor | 6 months jail, $1,000 fine |
| Injury (leaving scene) | Class A Misdemeanor | 364 days jail, $750 minimum fine |
| Serious bodily injury | Third-degree Felony | 5 years prison, $750 minimum fine |
| Death | Third-degree Felony | 5 years prison, $750 minimum fine |
| Automobile homicide (DUI) | Third-degree Felony | 5 years prison |
Additional consequences: Driving without insurance is a Class B misdemeanor in Utah. Conviction for hit and run will result in license suspension or revocation and significantly higher insurance premiums.
Utah Crash Statistics
According to data from the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and Department of Public Safety:
- 281 traffic fatalities occurred on Utah roads in 2024, compared to 279 in 2023
- July 2024 was the deadliest month on record, with 49 fatal crashes causing 54 deaths
- The state recorded 54 fatalities during the summer months alone in 2024
- UDOT and DPS continue to emphasize driver responsibility and safety awareness campaigns
Hit-and-run incidents remain a concern in urban areas, particularly Salt Lake City, where multiple pedestrian hit-and-run cases have been investigated in recent years.
Notable Cases
Salt Lake City Serial Hit-and-Run Investigation (2024): Anh Pham was identified as a suspect in at least four hit-and-run crashes that left six pedestrians injured. The investigation revealed that police initially did not link the attacks because hit-and-run incidents are common in the area. This case highlights the challenge of investigating such crimes and the importance of witness cooperation.
Downtown Salt Lake City Fatal Hit-and-Run (2025): Salt Lake City Police arrested a suspect in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash in downtown. The case was investigated by SLCPD’s Traffic Unit with assistance from witnesses and surveillance footage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Utah a no-fault state for car insurance?
Yes. Utah is a no-fault insurance state, meaning after an accident you file a claim under your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage regardless of who was at fault. However, you retain the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party for damages exceeding PIP coverage.
What if I did not know I was involved in an accident?
Lack of knowledge is a potential defense under Utah law. The statute requires that you “knowingly” leave the scene. If you were genuinely unaware of your involvement in a collision, you may not be guilty of hit and run. However, “reason to believe” you may have been involved creates a legal obligation to stop.
How long do I have to report an accident in Utah?
You have 10 days to file a written report for any accident involving death, injury, or property damage exceeding $2,500. However, you should contact law enforcement immediately if the accident involves injury or death.
Can I leave the scene if I fear for my safety?
Fear for your safety may justify leaving the scene, but you must immediately notify law enforcement. If you threaten or harm the other driver, they may claim self-defense as justification for their own departure.
What is the statute of limitations for civil claims?
In Utah, you have four years to file a personal injury claim, three years for property damage, and two years for wrongful death (starting from the date of death).