The Associated Press
TRENTON, N.J. — People who knowingly leave the scene of a vehicle accident that kills someone would face up to 10 years in prison under a bill that cleared the Legislature Monday.
Under current law, knowingly leaving the scene of an accident that kills someone can bring up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.
The bill that was approved in June by the Assembly and Monday by the Senate would increase the penalty to up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to $150,000, or both.
It would also boost the penalty for knowingly leaving the scene of an accident that seriously injures someone.
The law is named after Larry Skinner of Millville and Michelle Margaritonda of Martinsville, both of whom were killed by drivers who left the scene of the accident.
“Accidents happen, but leaving the scene of an accident is morally wrong, regardless of whether or not someone is injured,” said sponsor Sen. Fred Madden, D-Gloucester. “Leaving the scene when a person is seriously injured could mean the difference between life and death in that by staying behind, the uninjured driver could call 911 or just help keep the injured person conscious until first responders arrive.”