Bill > A03616

This bill expands legal protections for domestic and companion animals by requiring motorists to exercise greater care to avoid colliding with them on roadways. The legislation modifies existing traffic law to include companion animals (specifically dogs and cats, as well as other domesticated animals typically kept near a household) alongside domestic animals in provisions about driver responsibility. The bill increases penalties for drivers who cause physical or serious injury to these animals while failing to exercise due care, introducing new fine structures ranging from $500 to $750 and potential imprisonment or mandatory accident prevention courses. Additionally, the bill strengthens reporting requirements for motorists who strike animals, increasing fines for failing to stop and attempt to locate the animal's owner or contact authorities. Notably, the penalties are particularly stringent for incidents involving service animals like guide dogs or hearing dogs, with higher minimum and maximum fines for repeated offenses. The law aims to promote greater accountability and compassion from drivers towards animals, treating their safety as an important consideration in traffic interactions. The provisions will take effect 60 days after becoming law.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3616