In the United States, it’s estimated that nearly six million car accidents occur annually. Unfortunately, this means that a number of these collisions will result in fatalities. If you were driving a vehicle and caused the death of another person, it can be incredibly hard to deal with. These matters may only grow more severe when you are charged with vehicular manslaughter. If this represents your circumstances, understanding if and when this can be charged as a felony offense is imperative. The following blog explores these matters in further detail and you’ll learn why contacting an Oklahoma City manslaughter defense lawyer is critical.
What Is Vehicular Manslaughter?
Vehicular manslaughter occurs any time someone drives a vehicle in a negligent manner and that negligence leads directly to the death of another person. It constitutes negligence when a driver fails to exercise reasonable care. It’s also important to note that most often, people assume manslaughter is a “heat of passion” crime, which is partially true. Manslaughter can also be charged against those committing a misdemeanor offense at the time they have killed another. For vehicular manslaughter, this is most commonly speeding or other forms of reckless driving.
Though manslaughter is a form of homicide, it is viewed as less severe. This is because there is no premeditation involved in the crime. Those changes with this offense have not planned to carry out a murder, but are still held liable as their actions have caused the death of another.
What Are the Penalties for This Offense?
In most instances, vehicular manner is charged as a misdemeanor. However, if it is discovered that you were committing a misdemeanor offense during the act, you will face a felony offense. For example, if you were driving under the influence and this led to the death of another person, you will face a felony vehicular manslaughter offense.
It should be noted, however, that if you are committing felony DWI and that leads to the death of another person, the charge can be elevated from a manslaughter offense to second-degree murder.
If you are charged with first-degree manslaughter, meaning it is determined that your negligence was caused by a serious disregard for human life, you can face intense penalties. You will face no less than four years in prison if convicted. Additionally, you cannot receive probation for this offense.
When facing charges as serious as manslaughter in Oklahoma, understanding what you must do is critical. Generally, the most important thing you can do is connect with an experienced attorney from the Jones Law Firm. Our team will examine your circumstances to determine the best course of action for your needs. For some, this can be fighting the charges, while others may benefit from a plea deal. Regardless, working with our team can help increase your chances of receiving a favorable outcome for your circumstances.
