Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently signed a new bill into law that will repeal a Texas law that allows for surcharges to be added to drivers who receive certain traffic violations or multiple violations under the current Driver Responsibility Program. The passage of this law will also allow drivers with suspended licenses to have their driving privileges reinstated if they are suspended only because of non-payment of the additional surcharges.
About the Driver Responsibility Program
The Driver Responsibility Program was established in Texas in 2003. It allowed certain “bad-driver” surcharges to be doled out to drivers who received certain types of traffic violations, such as speeding or driving without a license. These drivers have to pay fees annually for three years in addition to the fee for the traffic violation. The Driver Responsibility Program brings in more than $300 million, which is used to help fund emergency trauma centers throughout Texas.
There have been mixed feelings about the program with advocates for it saying that the funds help treat people who have been injured in collisions and helps Texas secure federal money associated with Medicare. Opponents argue that the program causes an unnecessary escalation of fines, usually directed at low-income people who have difficulty paying the extra fines and surcharges.
Changes in the Law
Although individuals and groups have complained about the program for many years, this is the first time that the government has taken the action necessary to change the law. One of the concerns that lawmakers had was how the program is connected to supporting trauma care in Texas. Beginning September 1, 2019, individuals who have suspended licenses will be able to reinstate their driving privileges if the cause of the suspension is only due to not paying the increased surcharges. As part of the change, all traffic fines will increase by $20 and insurance bills will increase by $2. Additionally, drunk driving convictions can increase by up to $6,000. These additional amounts will help replace the current driver responsibility fees.
Dangers of Bad Drivers
Drivers who speed, text while drive, drink and drive or engage in other dangerous driving behaviors often put others on the roadway at risk. Their judgment may be impaired, which influences them to participate in more dangerous behaviors. When they speed, the impact often causes more serious injuries or fatalities because they do not have enough time to decrease their speed before a collision.
Legal Help with Your Accident Claim
If you were injured in an accident caused by a bad driver, it is important that you understand your legal right to recover compensation for the full extent of your accident. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers can discuss your claim during a free, confidential consultation. We will explain your rights and explore your legal options to hold bad drivers accountable for their actions.
