The bill amends existing laws regarding the responsibilities and penalties for drivers involved in accidents resulting in personal injury, serious bodily injury, or death. It establishes a new section titled "Duty to stop in accidents resulting in personal injury," which mandates that drivers involved in such accidents must stop and remain at the scene until they fulfill legal requirements. The penalties for failing to stop or comply with these requirements have been significantly increased, including mandatory imprisonment ranging from five to thirty years for first violations, and at least five years for subsequent violations, with the possibility of permanent license revocation.

The bill also introduces new sections addressing driving offenses that result in serious bodily injury or death, including driving under the influence of liquor or drugs. The penalties for these offenses have been enhanced, with imprisonment terms ranging from two to thirty years and increased fines. Additionally, the bill specifies that the license privilege shall not be reinstated until evidence satisfactory to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles establishes that no grounds exist for refusal to issue a license, and until the person provides proof of financial responsibility. The bill aims to create a more uniform and stringent approach to handling driving offenses that lead to serious consequences, thereby promoting road safety and accountability among drivers.

Statutes affected:
947: 31-26-1