AAA, lawmakers seek new auto manslaughter law
from Getting There by Michael Dresser
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But proponents argued that a simple traffic charge -- which can be resolved by mailing in a fine without a court appearance by the defendant -- isn't appropriate in a case where someone is killed through a driver's negligence.
“This much-needed legislation addresses a critical loophole that traffic safety advocates, including AAA and the families of victims have been trying to fix for nearly 15 years,” said AAA spokeswoman Ragina C. Averella. “It’s a loophole so large that negligent and irresponsible Maryland drivers who kill have been escaping through it for years."
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“It is embarrassing that Maryland has this massive loophole in its law. When you look at the statutes and accompanying penalties in other states, this bill is more than fair and sensible. It provides a measure of justice for all concerned,” she [Adiva Sotzsky] said.
But Frosh said in an interview last week that drivers found to be negligent in the deaths of others can face costly civil penalties. He said his view is that in most cases, jail terms should be reserved for those who intentionally caused harm.
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