Rhode Island House Bill H7403

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/22
• Refer: 2/9/22

Caption

Automobile Accident Social Protection Act

Impact

The implementation of HB H7403 would lead to notable changes in state law concerning how accident victims receive compensation. Benefits are designed to cover up to $100 weekly for individuals unable to work due to injuries sustained in an accident, as well as comprehensive support for medical and rehabilitation services. This financial restructuring draws from a collective contribution by all vehicle owners at the time of registration, thereby promoting a shared societal responsibility towards individuals affected by negligence on the roads.

Summary

House Bill H7403, titled the Automobile Accident Social Protection Act, aims to establish a comprehensive framework for compensating victims of automobile accidents in Rhode Island. Under this act, the Automobile Accident Compensation Administration (AACA) will be responsible for administering benefits to individuals who suffer bodily injury or death due to automobile accidents involving uninsured motorists. The act introduces the premise of an accident compensation fund which seeks to provide payments for medical expenses, loss of income, and related rehabilitation services to affected individuals and their beneficiaries.

Contention

The bill faces potential contention regarding its eligibility criteria which may exclude certain individuals from receiving benefits, particularly those whose injuries stem from acts of negligence on their own part or illegal activity, such as driving without a valid license. Critics may also voice concerns about the potential burden this new system could place on responsible drivers through increased premiums, viewing it as an unjust penalization for the actions of uninsured motorists. Overall, while designed to shield victims from severe financial strain, the bill may spur debate about the balance between individual accountability and social protection.