Legal Definitions - nonresident-motorist statute

A nonresident-motorist statute is a law in a state that outlines the responsibilities and liabilities of people who are not residents of that state but use its highways. This law is designed to ensure that nonresidents are held accountable for any accidents or damages they cause while driving in the state.

For example, if someone from New York is driving through Pennsylvania and causes an accident, the nonresident-motorist statute in Pennsylvania would apply. The law would require the driver to comply with Pennsylvania's rules and regulations, including carrying the minimum amount of liability insurance required by the state.

Another example would be if someone from Canada is driving through Michigan and gets into an accident. The nonresident-motorist statute in Michigan would apply, and the driver would be held responsible for any damages they caused.

These examples illustrate how nonresident-motorist statutes work to ensure that people who use a state's highways are held accountable for their actions. It doesn't matter if they are from another state or country; they must follow the laws of the state they are driving in and take responsibility for any accidents or damages they cause.