NY A10660

Expands the definition of animals protected under Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1146 to include "companion animals" (dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals normally maintained in or near a household), in addition to existing protections for domestic animals (sheep, cattle, goats) and bicyclists/pedestrians.

Requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with domestic and companion animals and to sound horn when necessary.

Increases penalties for causing physical injury to a domestic or companion animal while failing to exercise due care from a traffic infraction to a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment up to 15 days.

Increases penalties for causing serious physical injury to a companion animal to a fine of up to $750, imprisonment up to 15 days, required motor vehicle accident prevention course, and/or license suspension.

Increases fines under § 601 for leaving the scene of injury to certain animals without reporting: first offense from $100 to $500 maximum; second and subsequent offenses from $50-$100 to $200-$750; and for service dogs increases first offense penalties to $250-$550 and second offense to $350-$750.