| Start Date: | 1/11/2008 | All Day | | | End Date: | 1/11/2008 | | |
(STATEHOUSE) Jan. 11, 2008 - State Rep. Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville) is introducing a bill this session to stiffen the penalties for drivers who run school bus stop signs. This past fall, Casey Groves, an elementary school student in Warrick County was struck by a car getting off the school bus. The accident alerted members of the community and Rep. Crouch that the penalties are too minimal for reckless drivers who injure students exiting school buses. "Currently, the penalties are the same for all who run a school bus stop sign, whether they hit a child or a mailbox," said Rep. Crouch. "The maximum sentence is up to 180 days of imprisonment or a $1,000 fine. My bill will create tougher penalties and, hopefully, remind drivers to slow down when they see children getting off the school bus." Reckless drivers who run a school bus stop sign and cause bodily injure to a person could be convicted of a Class A misdemeanor under this bill. If convicted, the maximum penalty would be up to 1 year of imprisonment or a $5,000 fine. If the driver causes serious injuries, he/she would be charged with a Class D felony, which carries a sentence of up to 3 years in jail or a $10,000 fine. The court would also be required to recommend suspending the person's driving privileges for at least 90 days. Rep. Crouch encourages local constituents to contact her with questions or concerns through e-mail at h78@in.gov, or by calling the Statehouse toll-free at 1-800-382-9841. It is also possible to write her at 200 W. Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
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