Senate Gives Final Passage to Bill Requiring DMV Re-Examination of Motorists Involved in Accidents Involving Loss of Consciousness

Albany, NY – To strengthen the safety of New York drivers and pedestrians, the State Senate gave final legislative passage to a measure sponsored by Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I-57^th District) that will require driver’s license holders to undergo a driving reexamination if they experience a loss of consciousness that causes or contributes to a car accident.  The bill, S. 8990, also requires the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to evaluate procedures regarding its medical review program and recommend improvements.

“When a driver loses consciousness behind the wheel, the consequences can be tragic. It is critical that DMV have the ability to step in and evaluate any driver in this situation who causes an accident. Their capacity to continue to drive safely needs to be determined, and acted upon, if necessary,” said Senator Young. “This measure will give DMV that authority and also direct the department to study the effectiveness of its current medical review reporting procedures and make recommendations on improvements.”

Under current law, DMV can require licensed drivers to submit to reexaminations of their fitness to drive if they have been involved in three reportable crashes within a period of 18 months, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe they are not qualified to drive. According to DMV procedures, any reexaminations based on concerns about a driver’s fitness must be based on a “specific reason” including a driving incident, behavior or action or other cause reported to DMV by a physician, a police officer, or acquaintance.

The bill has already passed the Assembly and will head to the Governor’s desk for review.