The bill, known as the "Christina Larsen Act," amends the penalties for hit-and-run driving in Louisiana, specifically enhancing the consequences when the victims are pedestrians or bicyclists. Under the revised law, if a driver commits hit-and-run resulting in death or serious bodily injury, they will face a fine of up to $5,000 and a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years, with at least 2 years served without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence if the victim is a pedestrian or bicyclist.

Additionally, for more severe cases where the driver has a history of certain offenses, the penalties are increased to a prison term of 5 to 20 years, with a minimum of 5 years served without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence if the victim is a pedestrian or bicyclist. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which these penalties apply, including the driver's knowledge of their involvement in the accident. Overall, the legislation aims to impose stricter penalties to deter hit-and-run incidents, particularly those involving vulnerable road users.

Statutes affected:
HB1234 Original: 14:100(C)(2)
HB1234 Engrossed: 14:100(C)(2)