Bill > S2135

This bill amends existing law to increase the severity of the crime for a motor vehicle operator who knowingly leaves the scene of an accident when that accident results in the death of another person. Previously, such an offense was classified as a second-degree crime, typically carrying penalties of five to 10 years in prison and/or a fine up to $150,000. This bill reclassifies this specific offense as a first-degree crime, which generally carries more severe penalties of 10 to 20 years in prison and/or a fine up to $200,000. The bill also clarifies that knowledge of the death or the specific law violated (R.S.39:4-129, which pertains to leaving the scene of an accident) is not a required element for conviction, meaning an operator cannot use ignorance of these facts as a defense. Furthermore, it specifies that convictions under this section will not merge with convictions for other related offenses like aggravated manslaughter or vehicular homicide, and that any prison sentences imposed for multiple offenses must be served consecutively, meaning one after the other.

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https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S2135