Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation increasing the penalty for driving on the sidewalk.

By Council Members Weprin, Constantinides, Levine, Mendez, Rosenthal, Reynoso, Menchaca, Levin, Arroyo, Van Bramer, Vallone and Dromm

Whereas, Section 1225-a of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law prohibits any individual from driving "a motor vehicle on or across a sidewalk" with minor exceptions, such as to gain access to adjacent buildings or driveways; and

Whereas, A violation of §1225-a is a traffic infraction, resulting in an escalating range of penalties, including a fine of up to $150 for a first offense; and

Whereas, Driving on the sidewalk presents a grave risk to pedestrians; and

Whereas, During a 30-day period in February and March 2013, there were five instances of a motorist hitting a pedestrian on a sidewalk, resulting in three deaths and two serious injuries; and

Whereas, On September 12, 2013, five children were injured in Maspeth, Queens when an SUV hit them while they were walking on the sidewalk; and

Whereas, In light of the inexcusable and serious nature of driving on the sidewalk and the dangerous conditions it creates, the fine for violation of §1225-a of the Vehicle and Traffic Law should be increased to up to $250 for a first offense and the infraction should also result in three points being added to the driver's license; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation increasing the penalty for driving on the sidewalk.

JM/lf

Res2093/2013

3/10/14