Bill > A03172

This bill modifies definitions and legal standards related to reckless driving and criminal liability in vehicle-related incidents. It expands the definition of reckless driving in the vehicle and traffic law to include three distinct scenarios: (1) unreasonably interfering with public highway or parking lot use, (2) unreasonably endangering highway or parking lot users, and (3) meeting the definition of recklessness under the penal law. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision in the penal law that allows for finding criminal negligence in motor vehicle-related homicide or assault cases if the person was driving recklessly as defined under the vehicle and traffic law. This means that drivers who engage in reckless behavior that leads to serious injury or death can now be more easily prosecuted for criminal negligence, potentially facing misdemeanor charges. The changes are designed to strengthen legal consequences for dangerous driving and provide clearer pathways for prosecuting drivers whose reckless actions result in harm to others.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3172