This bill amends the existing law regarding homicide and great bodily harm caused by vehicle operation. It raises the classification of homicide by vehicle while committing reckless driving from a third degree felony to a second degree felony. Additionally, it establishes that a person who commits homicide by vehicle or causes great bodily harm by vehicle while engaging in careless driving will be guilty of a fourth degree felony.

The bill also includes specific provisions regarding penalties for individuals who commit these offenses under the influence of intoxicating substances or while violating certain traffic laws. Notably, it clarifies that violations of speeding laws will not automatically constitute a violation of reckless driving laws. The new legal language introduced in the bill specifies the penalties associated with these offenses, including the increase of sentences for repeat offenders with prior DWI convictions.

Statutes affected:
TP substitute: 66-8-101