Bill > S00311

This bill strengthens regulations and penalties for drivers who fail to exercise proper caution when approaching emergency vehicles, hazard vehicles, or vehicles displaying blue or green lights. The legislation mandates that drivers must exercise "due care" when near such vehicles, which includes moving to another lane on parkways or controlled-access highways when possible. The bill introduces significant criminal penalties for violations: if a driver recklessly fails to exercise due care and causes physical injury, they can be charged with a class A misdemeanor with fines between $250-$500, and a second violation within 18 months becomes a class E felony. More seriously, if the violation causes serious physical injury, it becomes a class D felony with fines up to $5,000, and if the violation results in death, it becomes a class C felony with similar financial penalties. Additionally, the bill requires a mandatory six-month driver's license suspension for violations causing serious injury or death. To support these changes, the Division of Criminal Justice Services must launch a public information campaign to educate drivers about the potential criminal consequences of failing to exercise caution near emergency and hazard vehicles. The bill aims to enhance road safety and protect emergency personnel and other motorists by imposing stricter consequences for dangerous driving.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S311