Sen. Judy Ward to Introduce Legislation to Increase Penalties for Causing Unintentional Death

HARRISBURG - Sen. Judy Ward (R-30), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, today announced the introduction of the "Kyle Costrello and Glenn Compton Law" to increase penalties for causing unintentional death on the roadway.

"Far too many Pennsylvanians who are grieving the loss of their loved ones are forced to endure even more pain when they learn those who caused these crashes are facing nothing more than a slap on the wrist," said Ward. "Closing this loophole in the state's vehicle code will not only create a tool for law enforcement to help keep our roads safe but will also hopefully bring some sense of closure to the families who have been forced to live with the pain of losing loved ones over the careless actions of others."

The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 1286, would increase the penalties associated with unintentional death, including an ungraded misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $2,500 and a license suspension of up to two years.

The legislation is named after constituents who lost their lives in traffic crashes, resulting in penalties their families undoubtedly feel were not equal to justice.

Kyle Costrello was riding his motorcycle in Lancaster County when another driver crossed the centerline and collided with him. Unfortunately, the impact ended Kyle's life too early. The other driver was charged under careless driving. The penalty was a mere $500 fine.

Glenn Compton was killed in a crash in Juniata County caused by an out-of-state driver, which also seriously injured his wife. This was another traffic incident where the police did not have probable cause to pursue stronger charges, such as homicide by vehicle. As a result, the other driver faces only minor traffic offenses rather than more severe penalties for causing Glenn's death.

The legislation was referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for consideration.

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