TYPES OF VEHICULAR HOMICIDE CHARGES

Vehicular homicide, or vehicular manslaughter, is a crime that generally involves the death of an individual other than the driver as a result of criminal negligence when operating a motor vehicle.

Vehicular manslaughter is considered a serious crime, and this charge must be defended by a skilled lawyer. Read on to find more about how the different kinds of vehicular manslaughter.

Vehicular Manslaughter: Gross Negligence

Under Maryland law, a person may not cause the death of another as a result of the person’s driving, operating, or controlling a vehicle or vessel in a grossly negligent manner. Gross negligence is a premeditated decision that amounts to a reckless disregard for human life. If convicted of this felony, you may face imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $5,000.

Vehicular Manslaughter: Criminal Negligence

Criminal negligence is a slightly lesser charger. However, the crime of vehicular manslaughter due to criminal negligence is still a felony. A driver may be found guilty if his conduct is a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would exercise. An individual convicted of this crime is subject to a punishment of up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

Vehicular Homicide While Under the Influence of Alcohol

DUI, or driving under the influence of alcohol, is generally considered a misdemeanor crime. A DUI may be charged if a driver’s blood alcohol level is .08% or higher. However, when DUI results in the death of another, a driver may be punished with up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Even a driver who would not otherwise be guilty of a DUI may be charged with vehicular homicide while impaired by alcohol or vehicular homicide while impaired by drugs. These charges are also felonies, and they carry the same potential sentence as vehicular homicide while under the influence of alcohol.