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Bill > HB0222


UT HB0222

UT HB0222
Access to Traffic Accident Evidence


summary

Introduced
01/21/2025
In Committee
02/19/2025
Crossed Over
02/11/2025
Passed
03/07/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
03/26/2025

Introduced Session

2025 General Session

Bill Summary

General Description: This bill amends provisions related to accident reports and other related records and the disclosure of those records to an attorney representing a person involved in the accident.

AI Summary

This bill amends Utah's existing law regarding traffic accident reports to provide clearer definitions and regulations around accessing and disclosing these documents. The bill expands the definition of "accident report" to include a wide range of documents and materials related to an accident investigation, such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, photographs, and video footage. It also clarifies who can request an unredacted accident report, including the accident participants, their legal representatives, insurance companies, and certain government agencies. The bill introduces new provisions allowing attorneys representing individuals involved in an accident to obtain protected records, provided they submit a written request with a letter of representation and commit to using the records only for litigation purposes. The bill also strengthens restrictions on obtaining and using accident reports, making it a class A misdemeanor to inappropriately access or use such reports, particularly for marketing services. Additionally, the bill specifies that certain sensitive information, like witness contact details, can be redacted to protect individuals' privacy and safety. The legislation is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, and aims to balance transparency in accident reporting with protecting the privacy and safety of those involved.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry, Justice

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Governor Signed in Lieutenant Governor's office for filing (on 03/26/2025)

bill text


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