Bill > SB202

This bill amends an existing South Dakota law, specifically section 32-30-18.1, to expand the circumstances under which a motor vehicle owner is responsible for the costs associated with removing their vehicle from a body of water. Previously, the law only held owners liable if they intentionally abandoned a vehicle on a public highway or right-of-way. The proposed changes would also make owners civilly liable for removal and storage expenses if they intentionally drive their vehicle into a lake, stream, or other body of water where it becomes disabled, or if they drive it onto a frozen body of water and it breaks through the ice and becomes disabled. This means that if a vehicle is submerged or becomes stuck in ice due to the owner's actions, the owner will be responsible for paying the towing and any associated storage fees.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/27167