Texas Senate Bill SB1945

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the terminology used to describe transportation-related accidents.

Impact

The proposed amendments are expected to enhance the clarity with which transportation incidents are articulated in legal texts, potentially influencing how these incidents are investigated and reported by law enforcement and insurance companies. By adopting a more accurate terminology, the bill might support broader initiatives aimed at improving traffic safety and reducing the occurrences of such incidents. Moreover, it aligns with national trends where 'crash' is favored over 'accident' to underscore accountability.

Summary

SB1945 is an act aimed at amending various sections of the Transportation Code that relate to the terminology surrounding transportation-related accidents. The bill seeks to change the language used in existing statutes to replace terms like 'accident' with 'crash,' emphasizing a shift towards a more deliberate and professional approach in discussing transportation incidents. This change reflects a growing recognition that such incidents are often influenced by systemic factors, rather than being purely accidental events.

Contention

While the bill has support for its aim to improve language regarding transportation incidents, there are points of contention surrounding its implementation. Opponents may argue about the impacts of changing terminology on liability and insurance claims, expressing concerns that the shift may create confusion or change existing legal interpretations of incidents. Additionally, language changes can require extensive updates to documentation and training for those involved in law enforcement and legal fields, which may lead to further debate about the costs and logistics involved in such a transition.