Senate Bill No. 424 Summary

• Makes it a Class D felony for a person to knowingly or intentionally operate a motor vehicle carrying a child under 8 years of age who is not properly restrained by a child restraint system if an accident results in serious bodily injury to the child.

• Elevates the offense to a Class C felony if the accident results in the death of the child.

• Makes it a Class D felony for a person to knowingly or intentionally operate a motor vehicle with a child ages 8-15 who is not properly fastened and restrained by a child restraint system or safety belt if an accident results in serious bodily injury; elevates to Class C felony if the accident results in death.

• Provides a defense to prosecution if a physician, physician's assistant, or advanced practice nurse certifies that restraint would be impractical due to a physical or medical condition of the child.

• Effective July 1, 2011.