Oklahoma lawmakers have introduced House Bill 3309, a legislative measure aimed at enhancing road safety and promoting motorcycle awareness. Introduced on February 13, 2024, the bill seeks to address the alarming rates of serious bodily injuries resulting from traffic violations, particularly those involving failure to yield the right-of-way.

The bill proposes that individuals convicted of causing serious bodily injury due to such violations will face a mandatory fee of $500. This fee will be directed to the Motorcycle Safety and Education Program Revolving Fund, which is designed to fund initiatives that raise public awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and promote motorcycle safety, especially among youth. The bill defines serious bodily injury as an injury that is significant but does not reach the threshold of great bodily injury or fatality.

In addition to the financial penalty, the bill allows courts to impose further sanctions, including mandatory remedial driving courses, a 90-day suspension of the offender's driver’s license, and restitution payments ranging from $3,000 to $10,000. These measures aim to deter reckless driving behaviors and encourage safer practices on the road.

The introduction of House Bill 3309 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and community advocates about its potential impact on public safety. Proponents argue that the bill could significantly reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities, while critics express concerns about the financial burden it may place on offenders and the effectiveness of additional penalties in changing driving behavior.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications for Oklahoma's road safety and the broader community will be closely monitored. If passed, the law is set to take effect on November 1, 2024, marking a significant step towards improving safety for all road users in the state.