Section 601 – Speed regulations — Safe and appropriate speeds at certain locations — Prima facie speed limits — Emergency power of the governor.

• (1) A person may not operate a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing conditions, giving regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing, including when:
  • (a) approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad grade crossing;
  • (b) approaching and going around a curve;
  • (c) approaching a hill crest;
  • (d) traveling upon any narrow or winding roadway;
  • (e) traveling in, through, or approaching other hazards that exist due to pedestrians, other traffic, weather, or highway conditions; and
  • (f) the speed causes the person to fail to maintain control of the vehicle or stay within a single lane of travel.

• (2) Subject to Subsections (1) and (4) and Sections 41-6a-602 and 41-6a-603, the following speeds are lawful:
  • (a) 20 miles per hour in a reduced speed school zone as defined in Section 41-6a-303;
  • (b) 25 miles per hour in any urban district; and
  • (c) 55 miles per hour in other locations.

• (3) Except as provided in Section 41-6a-604, any speed in excess of the limits provided in this section or established under Sections 41-6a-602 and 41-6a-603 is prima facie evidence that the speed is not reasonable or prudent and that it is unlawful.

• (4)
  • (a) A violation of Subsection (1) is an infraction.
  • (b) For an individual convicted of a speed violation where the individual was operating at a speed of 100 miles per hour or more, the court shall impose a fine not less than 150% of the suggested fine in the uniform fine schedule authorized in Section 76-3-301.5 and in effect at the time of the citation.

• (5) The governor by proclamation in time of war or emergency may change the speed limits on the highways of the state.

Amended by Chapter 176, 2022 General Session