A bill currently pending in the state Legislature would heavily increase punishments for people who injure or kill “vulnerable highway users,” such as pedestrians and cyclists.
The bipartisan bill authored by state Sen. Luther Olsen, R-Ripon, would double the current penalties assessed for the violations and include a wide range of “vulnerable highway users” around the state.
People driving farm machinery, riding a motorcycle or performing medical services on the road would be included in the category of vulnerable users. Law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians performing their “official” duties would also be included, according to the bill text.
Drivers who injure a vulnerable user would face a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment, up to 90 days or both. Those who kill a vulnerable user would face up to $10,000, nine months in jail or both.
