NJ A4097

Upgrades reckless vehicular homicide from a second-degree to first-degree crime when the driver is intoxicated and the incident occurs in a highway construction zone or designated safe corridor

First-degree crime carries 10 to 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $200,000, compared to 5 to 10 years and $150,000 for second-degree offenses

Applies to drivers violating DWI laws (R.S.39:4-50) or refusing sobriety tests while driving through areas marked with construction signs or segments designated as "safe corridors" by the Commissioner of Transportation

Mirrors existing first-degree penalty enhancements already in place for intoxicated drivers who cause death in school zones or within 1,000 feet of school property

Defendant's lack of awareness that they were in a construction zone or safe corridor is not a valid defense