Posted On: June 25, 2006, 1:22 am CDT

Posted By: Capt. Bly

Ok, I've read what is here and suppose we have two areas where the state can hold everyone accountable for their actions.

I know that some cage drivers might not like the accountability but here goes.

CIVIL LIABILITY; -- the best way to save the state money, to reduce the drain on taxpayers, while supporting victims rights is to set minimum insurance requirement high enough to cover the reasonably expected trauma. If it is reasonable and ordinary for medical and lost time charges to be $ 1,000,000.00 then set that at the minimum. If a loss of this level seldom occurs, the insurance companies will take that into setting the rate. The victim should never have to cover any gaps between a perpetrators insurance and cash or assets, nor should the state be on the hook.

I suggest establishing guidelines for CRIMINAL PROSECUTION for negligent actions such as inattentiveness.
1. The charges; in the worst case, vehicular manslaughter down thru simple vehicular assault. Whether I get hit with a SUV, a bat, or machete I get hurt by the person's actions. The crime and punishment rendered should relate to the 'contributing actions and results' not the weapon use to inflict the injury. I could be just a dead from the discharge of your .38 as I would be from how you drove your 4-door SUV. People have to be equally accountable when either type of weapon is not keep under control.
2. Maybe we need a table of consequences for failure to maintain adequate insurance. If you don't have adequate insurance there must be a deterrent greater than "don't do it again". Mandatory driver's license suspension at a minimum. 3 weeks of incarceration for a second offence?
3. Maybe we need to consider "I didn't see" as an admission of criminal guilt when the outcome is dire to the victim. No matter what the punishment is, the fear of having a criminal record will prompt most into taking a second responsible look before action is taken.