Utah § 12a-505 - Effect upon nonresident of use of state highways.
Full text of Utah Utah Code § 12a-505 — Effect upon nonresident of use of state highways., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12a-505. Effect upon nonresident of use of state highways.
41-12a-505.
Effect upon nonresident of use of state highways.
(1)
(a)
The use and operation by a nonresident or his agent, or of a resident who has departed Utah, of a motor vehicle on Utah highways is an appointment of the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code as the true and lawful attorney for service of legal process in any action or proceeding against the person arising from the use or operation of a motor vehicle over Utah highways which use or operation results in damages or loss to person or property.
(b)
The use or operation referenced in Subsection (1) is an agreement that process shall, in any action against the person in which there is such service, be of the same legal force and validity as if served upon him personally in Utah.
(2)
(a)
Service of process under Subsection (1) is made by serving a copy upon the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code or by filing a copy in that office with payment of a reasonable fee.
(b)
The plaintiff shall, within 10 days after service of process, send notice of the process together with plaintiff's affidavit of compliance with this section to the defendant by registered mail at the defendant's last-known address.
(3)
(a)
The court in which the action is pending may order any continuance necessary to afford the defendant reasonable opportunity to defend the action, but not exceeding 90 days from the date of filing the action in court.
(b)
The reasonable fee paid by the plaintiff to the Division of Corporations and Commercial Code is taxed as costs if the plaintiff prevails.
(c)
The division shall keep a record of all process served showing the day and hour of service.
Section 12a-505 ("Effect upon nonresident of use of state highways.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Utah § 12a-505?
A common citation format is "Utah Code § 12a-505" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Utah law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.
How does Utah § 12a-505 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
