HB509 Summary

• Amends Section 13A-10-52 of the Alabama Code to include causing death or physical injury to a law enforcement officer as a felony enhancement trigger for fleeing or eluding law enforcement.

• Establishes that fleeing from a law enforcement officer on foot or fleeing/eluding a law enforcement officer in a motor vehicle remains a Class A misdemeanor unless the flight causes death or physical injury to an innocent bystander, third party, or law enforcement officer.

• Elevates the offense to a Class C felony if the flight or eluding causes actual death or physical injury to an innocent bystander, third party, or law enforcement officer, and mandates driver's license suspension for 6 months to 2 years.

• Exempts the enhanced penalties if the law enforcement officer is operating an unmarked vehicle.

• Became effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor, with the bill passing the House on March 23, 2010 with 95 yeas, 0 nays, and 1 abstention.