Vehicle Laws - Injury or Death of Vulnerable Individual - Penalties

SB 385 increases penalties for drivers who cause serious injury or death to specific vulnerable road users - such as pedestrians (including workers and emergency personnel), cyclists, motorcyclists, wheelchair users, and others on sidewalks or highways - when the driver was violating traffic laws. Convicted drivers face up to 2 months in jail, a $2,000 fine, or both, plus mandatory participation in a safety course and 150 hours of community service. The bill also requires drivers to appear in court (no prepayment of fines) and mandates a driver’s license suspension of 7 days to 6 months. It directly affects drivers convicted of such offenses, not the vulnerable individuals themselves. The law takes effect October 1, 2025.