Texas Senate Bill SB17

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to procedure, evidence, and remedies in civil actions.

Impact

A central feature of SB17 is the introduction of a bifurcated trial system specifically for actions arising from commercial motor vehicle accidents. This means that liability and the amount of compensatory damages will be determined in separate phases, which may expedite the legal proceedings and provide a clearer path to justice for claimants. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that defendants in these cases can limit their liability for damages caused by employees' negligence, instead relying on the doctrine of respondeat superior. This shift could alter how civil liability is approached in the context of commercial transport operations.

Summary

Senate Bill 17 (SB17) introduces significant amendments to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code in Texas, particularly focusing on civil actions involving motor vehicles. The bill establishes a clearer framework for defining what constitutes an 'accident' and delineates the responsibilities and liabilities of individuals and entities involved in motor vehicle-related civil actions. By refining legal definitions and processes, SB17 aims to streamline the judicial process, particularly in cases where commercial motor vehicles are involved.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding SB17 include the implications it may have on claimants' rights and the potential for decreased accountability for commercial entities. Critics argue that by facilitating a bifurcated trial and limiting the ability to hold employers directly accountable for employees' actions, the bill might undermine the protections available to victims of vehicle accidents. Additionally, the provisions regarding the admissibility of a defendant's non-compliance with regulations could be viewed as steps that favor defendants, potentially disadvantaging claimants seeking justice.