s_jud_2018a_2018-02-14t13:33:26z3 Hearing Summary

Senator Merrifield explained SB18-140 concerning the penalties imposed on the driver of a motor vehicle who causes at least serious physical injuries to a vulnerable road user.  He discussed vulnerable road users, such as bikers and pedestrians.  He also reported that bicyclists are disproportionately the subjects of hit and runs. 

He distributed Amendment L.001 (Attachment A). 

The committee discussed biker responsibilities and associated laws. 

Senator Merrifield reiterated that the bill only impacts motor vehicle drivers who are found to be careless. 

Ted Trujillo, representing the Division of Motor Vehicles in the Colorado Department of Revenue, answered questions from the committee about the bill, driver license suspensions, and provisional driving licenses.  The committee further discussed the percentage of drivers who are granted provisional driving licenses and the criteria considered by a hearings officer to obtain one.  

Mike Honn, representing Colorado State Patrol, spoke in support of the bill.  He provided statistics regarding crashes due to inattentive drivers.

Ted Heyd, representing Bicycle Colorado, spoke in favor of the bill.  He testified that Colorado roads are becoming more dangerous and distracted driving incidents are increasing. 

Dennis Haberstumpf, representing ABATE of Colorado, testified in favor the measure.  He expressed the opinion that stricter penalties are necessary, and the bill would be a deterrent for drivers to pay more attention on the roads.

Senator Merrifield made closing remarks. 

Committee discussion ensued about careless driving situations (i.e. California stops), aggregators, and appropriate consequences.