State Rep. Joe Miro (third from left) applauds as a bill his co-sponsored is signed into law by Gov. Jack Markell. The new statute enhances the penalty for "careless or inattentive driving" in cases where such actions play a role in the serious physical injury of a "vulnerable user" in a public right-of-way. Under the bill, the term "vulnerable user" applies to a broad range of people ranging from pedestrians and highway workers to bicyclists and farm machine operators. People found guilty of the infraction will be required to complete an approved traffic safety course and perform up to 100 hours of community service, including activities related to driver improvement and providing public education on traffic safety. Offenders would also face a fine of up to $550 and the suspension of driving privileges if they failed to complete the required training and service work.
