SB 499
Requiring auto accident toxicology test be performed
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires toxicology tests to be performed on the drivers involved in fatal vehicle crashes in West Virginia. It aims to gather evidence related to potential impairment at the scene of these accidents. The bill also establishes penalties for drivers who intentionally violate certain traffic laws and outlines definitions related to bodily injury and serious bodily injury. Finally, it mandates the revocation of a driver’s license for convictions related to these offenses.
Key provisions
- Requires toxicology tests for drivers in fatal vehicle crashes.
- Establishes penalties for intentionally violating traffic laws related to crashes.
- Defines terms such as ‘bodily injury,’ ‘physical injury,’ and ‘serious bodily injury’ for legal purposes.
- Specifies license revocation periods for convictions under the bill.
- Names the bill ‘Erin’s Law’.
- Addresses the timeframe for death occurring after a crash in felony prosecutions.
Who is affected
- Drivers of vehicles
- Passengers in vehicles involved in crashes
- Families of victims of fatal vehicle crashes
- Law enforcement officers investigating vehicle crashes
- The Department of Transportation
Notable changes
- Mandates toxicology testing in fatal vehicle crashes, which was not previously required.
- Increases penalties for drivers who intentionally violate traffic laws in crashes involving serious injury or death.
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