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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 26, 2023 09:35 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jose Giral |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Requiring Police to Report to the Scene of Vehicle Crashes |
| Vehicle crashes are an unfortunately common occurrence. With the potential for costly property damage and injury, these serious situations often necessitate the presence of a law enforcement officer. Current law outlines specific instances which require police to investigate a reported crash, including cases where there are injuries or extensive vehicle damage. However, the term investigate is not clearly defined, meaning it is not necessarily a requirement for officers to physically be present on the scene. The lack of police presence at crash sites is a dangerous issue due to the possibility for physical altercations, extensive injuries, and damage. Further, when police are not present to record the circumstances of the crash, the system is subject to massive insurance fraud, often complicated by conflicting accounts from the drivers involved. That is why I am introducing legislation to require a law enforcement officer to physically report to the scene of all reported vehicle crashes. There are too many unknowns when it comes to vehicle crashes, regardless of how minor they may appear, and police presence offers stability in these tense situations. Please join me in sponsoring this important legislation to improve public safety at crash scenes. Your consideration is greatly appreciated. |
Introduced as HB822