Vehicular manslaughter, sometimes referred to as vehicular homicide, is a crime in almost every state across America.
The punishment for this crime varies from state to state, but in most jurisdictions it is taken very seriously.
Generally defined, vehicular manslaughter revolves around a death that occurred because of driving a car in a negligent manner.
In some cases, you could be charged with vehicular manslaughter in connection with another charge such as drunk driving, gross negligence, speeding, or reckless driving.
The circumstances surrounding the event is the determining factor on whether you will be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, however most states consider vehicular manslaughter to be a felony.
States such as Alaska, Montana, Arizona, and Oregon do not have vehicular manslaughter laws.
But, these states treat a car or vehicle as a potentially deadly weapon.
This makes it easier to get a conviction and have more severe penalties.
If you're charged with felony vehicular manslaughter you could be sentenced to jail time in a Federal or state prison.
As part of your punishment, you may also be required to pay heavy fines, undergo mandatory rehabilitation, and be put on probation.
Additionally, the felony conviction would appear on your permanent record.
If convicted of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter, you could be sentenced up to one year in a county jail and also be subject to fines, rehabilitation, and probation.
As with the felony conviction, the misdemeanor offense appears on your permanent record.
If you have a prior criminal record, are on probation and/or parole, or have previously been convicted of vehicular manslaughter, the penalties could be a lot more severe.
If you've been charged with vehicular manslaughter or vehicular homicide you should seek the advice of a qualified criminal defense attorney.
A lawyer can evaluate the charges against you and help obtain the most favorable outcome in your case.