There are drivers who are charged with over speeding and other traffic laws while under the influence of alcohol. But there are instances when a driver causes a road accident that ends up in the death of passengers or pedestrians. Aside from facing DUI charges, the driver may also be charged with vehicular homicide or manslaughter.
By definition, vehicular homicide is a crime involving the death of an individual other than the driver because of a negligent operation of a motor vehicle. The victim does not have to be in another vehicle for the case to be considered vehicular homicide. The victim can be walking in the street, or he can be in the same vehicle as the driver.
Not everyone who faces DUI and vehicular homicide is given the same amount of jail time. Charges depend on state laws, as well as the severity of the crime. However, it is very rare for offenders to be given a life sentence for DUI and vehicular homicide.
Under Pennsylvania law, a person who unintentionally kills another as a result of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be convicted of a second-degree felony. An offender may serve a minimum imprisonment of three years. The law also states that a consecutive three-year term should be imposed for each DUI victim. Thus, if a driver kills two people while driving under the influence, he will likely serve six years in prison.
Allentown, Pennsylvania-based lawyer Michael J. Donohue provides legal counsel to individuals facing criminal charges such as vehicular homicide and DUI. Learn more about his practice here.
By definition, vehicular homicide is a crime involving the death of an individual other than the driver because of a negligent operation of a motor vehicle. The victim does not have to be in another vehicle for the case to be considered vehicular homicide. The victim can be walking in the street, or he can be in the same vehicle as the driver.
Image source: masasieharare.com
Not everyone who faces DUI and vehicular homicide is given the same amount of jail time. Charges depend on state laws, as well as the severity of the crime. However, it is very rare for offenders to be given a life sentence for DUI and vehicular homicide.
Image source: rms.nsw.gov.au
Under Pennsylvania law, a person who unintentionally kills another as a result of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be convicted of a second-degree felony. An offender may serve a minimum imprisonment of three years. The law also states that a consecutive three-year term should be imposed for each DUI victim. Thus, if a driver kills two people while driving under the influence, he will likely serve six years in prison.
Allentown, Pennsylvania-based lawyer Michael J. Donohue provides legal counsel to individuals facing criminal charges such as vehicular homicide and DUI. Learn more about his practice here.
No comments:
Post a Comment