Stricter Penalties for Hit-and-Run Drivers May Come Soon

There have been 4,000 hit-and-run incidents in New York City this year that lead to some kind of injury. A new law hopes to increase penalties on hit-and-run drivers.

Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer said he hopes this will curb incidents involving alcohol. "There is a perverse incentive in New York for drunk drivers to flee the scene since criminal penalties for hit-and-runs are less severe than criminal penalties for driving under the influence," Van Bramer said.

The new penalties will fine drivers up to $10,000, depending on the violation.