Appropriately named The Sunshine State, Florida’s consistent, mild weather allows residents, from the Panhandle to the Keys, to enjoy the outdoors year-round. While the list of activities is broad, much of it consists of walking, running and biking on public thoroughfares.
In the wake of the 2012 death of bicyclist Aaron Cohen, Governor Rick Scott signed Senate Bill 102 on June 24, 2014, creating The Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act. The bill was designed to protect families who suffer losses caused by reckless hit-and-run drivers by increasing the punishments for leaving the scene of an accident.
“No one should have to suffer the loss of a loved one due to reckless driving, and with this important law, we’ll be more effective in protecting families,” stated Governor Rick Scott. By raising the punishment for leaving an accident scene, the bill aims to make roads and communities safer and hold people acting recklessly more accountable for their actions.
The Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act:
- Increases the punishment for leaving the scene of an accident that results in serious injuries
- Requires a mandatory, four-year minimum jail sentence for drivers convicted of leaving the scene of a fatal accident
- Doubles the mandatory, minimum jail term to four years for drivers convicted of leaving the scene of a fatal accident while driving under the influence
- Requires a minimum, three-year driver license revocation
If you or someone you know has been in an accident and fled the scene, you should strongly consider contacting a Bianco and Mansfield as soon as possible. Our Attorneys may be able to help you navigate the revised laws and see you through to a more favorable outcome.
