Texas House Bill HB1236

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the penalty for failure to yield the right-of-way to a disabled or visually impaired pedestrian.

Impact

The implications of HB 1236 not only involve increased penalties but also the requirement for law enforcement to maintain transparent records regarding fines collected from these offenses. The bill mandates that a portion of these fines, specifically 10%, will contribute to a designated special account for visually impaired safety services. This account is intended to fund programs that aid visually impaired individuals in various essential services, including counseling, medical treatment coordination, and training for independent living.

Summary

House Bill 1236 addresses the penalties for failing to yield the right-of-way to disabled or visually impaired pedestrians. The bill introduces stricter penalties, designating that if a collision occurs resulting in serious bodily injury or death to a disabled or visually impaired person, the offense will be classified as a misdemeanor. Offenders could face fines of up to $4,000 alongside mandated community service hours between 100 to 200, specifically serving organizations that assist disabled or visually impaired individuals. This legislative move is intended to bolster pedestrian safety and ensure responsible driving behaviors near vulnerable pedestrians.

Contention

While the bill garners support for enhancing safety for disabled pedestrians, points of contention may arise surrounding the adequacy of the proposed fines and community service requirements. Some stakeholders may argue that the penalties may not be sufficiently punitive to deter negligent driving behaviors, while others might advocate for more comprehensive measures that address broader issues of roadway safety and accessibility. Balancing the concerns of disabled advocates with the driving community is likely to spark debate as the bill progresses through the legislature.