Georgia Lawmakers Pass Bill Targeting Reckless Driving
Earlier this year, the Georgia Senate passed a new bill, specifically aimed at discouraging reckless driving, like illegal street racing, across the state. It is hoped that by the implementation of such laws as the “Safe Streets Act”, lawmakers and public officials can help put a stop to the rise in illegal drag racing and reckless driving, which have become increasingly common on Georgia’s roadways in recent years. Read on to learn more about this bill and how it could affect accident victim recovery rights down the road.
What is the Safe Streets Act?
Passed by the Georgia Senate in February, Senate Bill 10, or the “Safe Streets Act” attempts to put a stop to dangerous driving practices and hazardous stunts on the state’s roads. If enacted, the new statute would make it a misdemeanor offense for anyone to facilitate, organize, or even be present at an illegal drag race in the state. Under the terms of the new law, even using a vehicle to block a part of the road closest to the participants in the race would qualify as active facilitation and could result in a misdemeanor charge. Those convicted of drag racing or otherwise engaging in reckless stunt driving for the first time will be fined at least $500, but up to $1,000. A second conviction in a ten year period will qualify as an aggravated misdemeanor and come with a penalty of a fine of at least $750, but up to $1,500. For a third conviction, fines increase to between $2,500 and $5,000, while fourth and subsequent convictions will result in felony charges and:
- Imprisonment for between one and five years; and
- A fine of between $5,000 and $7,500.
It is hoped that these much steeper penalties will help discourage reckless driving across the state. The bill is now headed to the state’s House of Representatives for further scrutiny.
Impact of the Law on Accident Victim Recovery
Besides discouraging dangerous driving practices in Georgia, the new bill could make it easier for accident victims to recover compensation from reckless drivers who cause crashes. For instance, proof that a driver committed a criminal driving offense can go a long way towards establishing fault for a particular accident. This in turn, can make it easier for injured parties to recover their losses following a collision caused by a reckless street racer.
Call Shiver Hamilton Campbell Today
If you were injured in an accident caused by a reckless driver in Georgia, you could be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, vehicle repair costs, lost wages, and even your pain and suffering. To find out more about the ins and outs of filing such a claim, please call the dedicated and compassionate Atlanta car accident attorneys at the offices of Shiver Hamilton Campbell today. A member of our legal team is standing by and prepared to get started on your case right away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us by phone or online message at your earliest convenience.
Sources:
legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20232024/223309
hoodline.com/2024/02/georgia-senate-passes-safe-streets-act-targeting-reckless-driving-and-illegal-street-racing/
