Bill H.912, introduced by Representative Kleppner of Burlington, aims to enhance accountability for negligent operation of motor vehicles in accidents resulting in the death of vulnerable users, such as pedestrians and bicyclists. The bill mandates that law enforcement officers issue a citation for negligent operation if the operator is involved in an accident that either is not witnessed by the officer but results in the death of a vulnerable user, or is witnessed by the officer, unless the operator can demonstrate that they could not reasonably have avoided the accident.

This legislation seeks to address the serious issue of road safety for vulnerable users by ensuring that negligent behavior is appropriately penalized, thereby promoting greater caution among drivers. The proposed changes reflect a commitment to protecting vulnerable road users and holding drivers accountable for their actions in fatal accidents.