From the desk of Gary J. Wojtan, Attorney at Law
Dear Clients:
We want you to be aware of NYS legislation that recently passed the New York State Senate concerning unlicensed drivers causing the death of other individuals. If you have any questions about this legislation or any other vehicle and traffic matter (including DWI) please call our office at 681-3355.
Gary J. Wojtan
The New York State Senate has passed legislation known as Teresita’s Law, which makes it a felony if an unlicensed driver causes death to another person. The bill (S.1888), sponsored by Senator John Bonacic (R-C-I, Mount Hope), recognizes that the unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, that ends in death, should be treated as a serious crime.
“Teresita’s Law was introduced following the death of Teresita ‘Grace’ Solano, who was killed in Middletown, New York, last year when she was hit by a negligent driver who was operating a vehicle with a suspended license,” said Senator Bonacic. “The man who hit Ms. Solano served the highest sentence that he could be charged with – a misdemeanor with a maximum of 30 days in jail and a fine. This is an outrage. This legislation elevates this crime to a Class E felony punishable by up to four years in prison. Those who drive without valid licenses should not be on the road, and when a suspended driver kills an innocent person, they cannot walk away with only a slap on the wrist.”
Currently, unlicensed operation that ends in the death of a person is only a felony if someone has 10 or more suspensions or if a license has been permanently revoked. This bill would make it a felony when a person drives with even one suspension and causes a death.
The bill was sent to the Assembly.