Lawmakers in New York have voted for tougher penalties for drivers who leave the scene of an accident.

The state Senate voted Wednesday in favor of legislation that would impose up to seven years of prison on a motorist who flees the scene of an accident resulting in an injury. Currently, the crime carries a sentence of up to one year.

The fines and potential prison sentence for leaving the scene of a fatal accident would also be increased.

Similar legislation is pending in the state Assembly.

(AP)