The bill, S.B. No. 1088, proposes to increase the criminal penalty for reckless driving in Texas by amending Section 545.401 of the Transportation Code. The amendment introduces a new classification for reckless driving offenses, establishing that if a person causes a collision resulting in bodily injury while driving recklessly, the offense will be classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This classification applies if the driver was operating the vehicle at speeds of 20 miles per hour or more over the posted limit in urban areas, 30 miles per hour or more over the limit outside urban areas, or while using a portable wireless communication device.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that if the conduct constituting reckless driving also violates other laws, the individual may be prosecuted under this section, the other law, or both. The changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior to this date will be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 545.401 (Transportation Code 545)