New Alabama Bill Proposes Harsh Penalties for Aggressive Driving

Defining Aggressive Driving

According to SB172, a driver commits aggressive driving when they operate a vehicle with the intent to annoy, harass, intimidate, injure, or obstruct another motorist while committing at least one of the following offenses:

• Striking or attempting to force another vehicle off the roadway

• Passing in a no-passing zone

• Following another vehicle too closely

• Throwing hazardous objects onto the highway

• Illegally overtaking another driver on the left

• Driving below the minimum speed limit

• Engaging in reckless driving

• Staying in the leftmost lane for over 1.5 miles without passing another vehicle

• Brandishing a firearm while driving

Penalties for Offenders

If the bill becomes law, first-time offenders will face a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a punishment of up to one year in jail and a $6,000 fine. Additionally, the offender’s driver’s license would be suspended for at least 30 days.

For repeat offenses within a 10-year period, the penalties escalate significantly. A second conviction would result in a Class D felony, which includes a standard sentence ranging from 366 days to five years in prison. Additionally, the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency would revoke the offender’s license for at least one year.

Next Steps for SB172

If passed, the law would take effect on October 1. Currently, the bill is awaiting action in the Senate Committee on Judiciary. Senator Kelley has not yet commented on whether the bill was introduced in response to the increasing number of road rage incidents across Alabama.

With aggressive driving posing serious risks to motorists statewide, lawmakers hope SB172 will deter reckless behavior and enhance roadway safety. Stay tuned to The Cotton State Chronicle for updates on this developing legislation.