Whether you’re navigating Salt Lake City traffic or driving through Utah’s scenic highways, accidents can happen when you least expect them. If you’ve been injured in a crash, understanding Utah’s car accident laws can help you protect your rights and seek fair compensation. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about fault, deadlines, insurance coverage, and what to do if a rideshare or uninsured driver is involved.

Utah Is a No-Fault State

Utah follows a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance pays for your medical bills and other out-of-pocket losses—regardless of who caused the accident. This system is designed to reduce lawsuits and speed up claims, but it also limits your ability to file a lawsuit unless your injuries meet certain thresholds.

You may step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver only if:

• Your medical expenses exceed $3,000, or
• You suffer serious injuries such as permanent disability, disfigurement, or impairment

Required Insurance Coverage in Utah

Utah drivers must carry the following minimum insurance coverage:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $65,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $15,000 for property damage
• $3,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Optional coverages such as uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) insurance and collision coverage are also available and highly recommended.

Comparative Negligence Rule in Utah

Utah uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 50% bar. You can recover damages only if you were less than 50% at fault for the crash. If you are 50% or more responsible, you will not be able to collect compensation.

Your final compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if your damages total $40,000 and you’re 20% at fault, you’d recover $32,000.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

In Utah, the deadline to file a personal injury or property damage lawsuit is four years from the date of the accident. However, if the accident results in a death and you are filing a wrongful death claim, you have two years from the date of death.

Filing outside of this timeframe could mean losing your right to seek compensation altogether.

When Must You Report an Accident?

Utah law requires that you report a crash to law enforcement if:

• There is injury, death, or property damage over $1,500, or
• The accident involves an unattended vehicle or property

Drivers must also provide proof of insurance and exchange contact and vehicle information at the scene. You may be required to file a written report with the Utah Department of Public Safety if the police don’t investigate the crash.

Utah Personal Injury Law Overview

Utah personal injury laws allow injured parties to seek damages when harmed due to someone else’s negligence. In addition to car accidents, this includes truck crashes, pedestrian injuries, motorcycle wrecks, premises liability, and more.

There are no caps on economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages. However, non-economic damages like pain and suffering may be capped in specific medical malpractice cases—but not in general car accident claims.

Damages Available to Car Accident Victims

If your injuries meet Utah’s threshold for filing a claim outside the no-fault system, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost income or reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Mental and emotional distress
• Property damage
• Long-term disability or disfigurement

Your total recovery will depend on the extent of your injuries and the available insurance coverage.

Rideshare Accidents in Utah

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular in Utah, and accidents involving these vehicles require careful handling. These companies have layered insurance policies that apply based on the driver’s status:

• App on, no ride accepted: Up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage
• Ride accepted or passenger onboard: Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage

If you are injured as a passenger or hit by a rideshare driver, you may have access to this coverage depending on the circumstances. Rideshare accident claims can be complex, so legal assistance is strongly advised.

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your UM/UIM coverage (if purchased) can help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and more. This is especially important if the at-fault driver cannot fully compensate you for your losses.

Utah does not require drivers to carry UM/UIM coverage, but it’s a wise investment for additional protection.

Do You Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Utah?

While minor claims may be handled through insurance, serious or disputed cases often benefit from the help of an experienced attorney. A lawyer can help you navigate Utah’s no-fault rules, build a strong case, negotiate with insurers, and file a lawsuit if needed.

Most car accident attorneys in Utah offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you only pay if they win your case.