HARRISBURG – Legislation requiring passengers involved in motor vehicle accidents to contact emergency personnel and render reasonable assistance in cases where drivers “refuse” or “neglect” to offer aid was unanimously approved today by the Senate Transportation Committee, according to the bill’s prime sponsor state Senator Gene Yaw (R-23).
“I introduced this bill at the request of Bradford County constituents who were deeply impacted by an unreported hit-and-run that involved the death of a young man,” Yaw said. “If the passengers in the vehicle involved immediately reported and aided the victim, he may still be alive today. Unfortunately, they did not. This legislation is about doing the right thing and saving lives.”
Current law only requires a passenger to render aid if a driver is physically unable to do so.
Under the legislation, Senate Bill 146, drivers who violate this law would commit a misdemeanor of the third degree. Any occupant who violates the law would commit a summary offense.
Senate Bill 146 now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
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Adam Pankake
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