This offense is also committed when a motorist engages in a course of conduct by changing lanes of travel or speed of his or her vehicle on a public highway that serves no legitimate purpose, thereby creating a substantial risk of serious physical injury or death to another person. Additionally, the crime is committed when a motorist commits the second degree crime after having been convicted of the second degree crime within the preceding five years. The bill makes this conduct a Class E felony if, as a result of the driver's conduct, the police officer or a third person suffers physical injury. Motorists who intentionally cause collisions, threaten others with firearms, or recklessly create situations that imperil other travelers, are criminals and should be treated like criminals. They put themselves, their passengers and other motorists in grave physical danger, and could even cause death.
Aggressive drivers continue to be one of the biggest threats to innocent, law abiding motorists.
Governor Pataki's continued willingness to pursue legislation and support enforcement efforts aimed at reducing aggressive driving is critical to returning courtesy and civility to our highways.