Bill would increase penalties for hit-and-run drivers

COLUMBUS

Drivers who flee the scene of accidents that cause serious injury or death would faced increased criminal penalties, under legislation approved by the Ohio House this week.

HB 397 was OK’d on a vote of 88-1 and heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

Under existing law, fleeing the scene of an accident that causes serious injury is considered a fifth-degree felony, while fleeing one that causes a death is a third-degree felony. HB 397 would increase the penalties for both to a second-degree felony, with potential prison terms of 2-8 years.