Argentine lawmakers propose harsher penalties for fatal traffic accidents

Legislators in Argentina are advancing initiatives to toughen penalties for drivers who cause deaths through negligence or imprudence. Mendoza Security Minister Mercedes Rus and Deputy Pamela Verasay have presented a project to the Congress to modify the Penal Code, proposing prison sentences between 3 and 10 years for such offenses.

The proposal suggests specific penalties, including 3 to 5 years of imprisonment and a 4 to 8-year driving ban for negligent driving. Sentences could increase to 10 years if the driver flees the scene, fails to assist the victim, drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or significantly exceeds speed limits.

National Senator Anabel Fernández Sagasti noted that her own project to aggravate penalties for road crimes has already received partial approval from the Senate and is awaiting treatment in the Chamber of Deputies. Both legislative efforts are motivated by high-profile cases, such as the death of Alan Villouta in 2017, which sparked public outcry after the statute of limitations expired on the case.