Texas House Bill HB714

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the penalty for the offense of reckless driving.

Impact

The new penalties will impose a fine not to exceed $700 and potential confinement in county jail for up to 60 days for those convicted of reckless driving that leads to serious injuries or fatalities. Additionally, the bill allows for the suspension of the driver's license for a minimum of 30 days for offenders. These measures are intended to deter reckless behavior on the road and provide a stronger framework for dealing with serious incidents caused by reckless driving, thereby promoting overall traffic safety.

Summary

House Bill 714 aims to revise the penalties associated with the offense of reckless driving in Texas. The bill specifically amends Section 545.401 of the Transportation Code to introduce stricter consequences for individuals whose reckless driving results in serious bodily injury or death. Under the proposed changes, the penalties for such offenses would increase significantly compared to current misdemeanor penalties. This modification reflects an increasing legislative priority on improving road safety and holding reckless drivers accountable for their actions, particularly when they cause harm to others.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 714 may arise from concerns about the extent to which increased penalties could affect individuals who may already be struggling with driving-related issues. While proponents argue that these tougher penalties are necessary to address reckless driving effectively, opponents may express concern over the potential for overpunishment and the implications for individuals trying to rehabilitate their driving habits. Additionally, questions may be raised regarding the effectiveness of educational courses mandated by the court, as judges could require offenders to attend classes focused on the attitudinal dynamics of driving, which raises discussions about the best methods for prevention and education in road safety.