(Video by CNS-TV’s Matt Brody)
House Approves Bill Seeking Tougher Penalties in Fatal Auto Accidents
CNS-TV
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
ANNAPOLIS -- The House of Delegates has approved a bill that would make it easier for prosecutors to charge drivers with vehicular homicide in fatal accidents.
It would apply to motor vehicle, boat, streetcar or train operation. Prosecutors would have to prove a vehicle's operator should have known that his or her conduct created a "substantial and unjustifiable risk" of a fatal accident. Courts could hand down penalties of up to three years in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.
The measure was sent to the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee.