With the family of Casey Bassignani looking on, Governor Dan McKee has signed legislation that strengthens penalties for motor vehicle offenses involving road rage.
Casey's Law is named after Casey Bassignani, a 23-year-old Johnston woman who was forced off the road and killed in a rollover crash on I-295 South in Cranston last year.
Under Casey's Law, judges can significantly enhance sentences for drivers convicted in road rage incidents.
“After meeting the Bassignani family and hearing their story, I was proud to request this bill, and I am proud to sign it into law,” said Governor McKee. “I want to thank the Bassignani family, as well as Majority Whip Tikoian and Representative Corvese, for their commitment to this cause. Together, we’re making sure Casey’s memory lives on by creating stricter penalties and safer roads.”
Casey’s law adds an additional fine of up to $1,000 and up to a year of additional license suspension to any misdemeanor conviction on top of the penalty for the crime itself when the defendant engaged in intentionally aggressive, harassing, intimidating, or dangerous behavior as a driver or passenger.
The tougher sentences can be applied to drivers or passengers who engage in intentionally aggressive, harassing, intimidating, or dangerous behavior.
(Photo: Governor McKee's Office)