Pennsylvania Traffic Laws: Four New Laws Introduced
Car accidents are the cause of thousands of injuries and deaths around the country every year. In an attempt to combat this, Pennsylvania Legislature introduced and passed four new laws for drivers to abide by. These laws were written to protect drivers and others alike.
Pedestrian Safety
One of the four laws introduced is established to protect pedestrians. Pennsylvania drivers will now be required to yield the right of way to oncoming pedestrians when entering or exiting a private road. A driver will have to be more aware of the road when entering a private road or driveway. Drivers are also prohibited from passing cars that have stopped to allow pedestrians to use a crosswalk. Failure to observe this law can result in a fine as well as up to three points on their driving records.
Child Safety
Children under the age of 18 years old are now required by Pennsylvania law to wear a seatbelt at all times. The law also states that a booster seat must be used for toddlers between the ages of four and eight. Children age two and younger must also be seated in a rear-facing car seat until they exceed two years old or until they exceed the height and weight limit stated by the car seat manufacturer.
Texting and Driving
Texting and driving is on the rise and is on track to outnumber the leading causes of car accidents. A law regarding texting and driving, known as “Daniel’s Law” , referring to a motorcyclist who was killed after being struck down by a driver who was texting, gives Judges the liberty to extend the prison sentence of a driver who causes the injury or death of another person because of texting and driving. The prison sentence can be extended by up to five years at a judge’s discretion.
DUI Laws
A significant change for first time and repeat DUI offenders will go into effect in August. First time offenders of driving under the influence with a BAC of .10 or higher will no longer automatically have a one year license suspension. Instead, they may be required to install an ignition interlock device for at least one year. Repeat offenders may have their license suspended but could be eligible to serve a portion of that sentence if the installation of an ignition interlock device is approved. These devices prevent the vehicle from starting if the driver’s BAC exceeds the device’s pre-set limit.
State and federal laws change on a fairly regular basis. Not keeping up with the law could result in a significant difference should someone break a traffic law. If you or a loved one is a victim of someone else’s negligence who broke a traffic law, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who could help fight for you. Contact Berger Lagnese & Paul, LLC today.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.