DUI and Fatal Auto Accidents
Causing a fatal auto accident while DUI is a serious criminal offense called vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. A driver convicted of this crime may face up to 10 years in state prison, with possible enhancements depending on the circumstances of the accident, how many people are injured and any prior convictions of this kind. It may also count as a "strike" on a defendant's criminal record, leading to greatly increased penalties for any future serious or violent felony convictions.
Talking to an attorney experienced in defending Santa Ana drivers in the face of vehicular manslaughter charges is extremely important if you are to have the opportunity of avoiding a conviction. A legal professional can begin working immediately to protect your legal rights and represent your interests in these matters, properly presenting your case to the court and working to weaken the prosecution's case against you. For a free, confidential review of your case, contact a Santa Ana vehicular manslaughter attorney at our law offices today.
About Santa Ana Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
In California, this offense may be classified in one of two ways:
Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated - this offense occurs when a driver who is drunk or under the influence of drugs acts negligently and causes an auto accident that claims another person's life. Speeding, talking on the phone or forgetting to turn on one's headlights may be examples of negligence in this sense. It may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances, punishable by a maximum of 4 years in prison (additional imprisonment may apply for each additional victim who is injured).
Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated - this offense involves a driver who is driving under the influence and who acts in such a way as to place the lives of others at great risk. For example, racing, intentionally running a red light or driving on the wrong side of the road while DUI may all be considered examples of gross negligence. A defendant may face 4, 6 or 10 years in prison for a first conviction. If the defendant has a previous vehicular manslaughter conviction on his or her record or has two or more prior DUI convictions, he or she may face 15 years to life in prison. Additional terms of imprisonment may apply for each additional victim that suffers injury of any kind.
Contact a Santa Ana Vehicular Manslaughter Defense Lawyer today.