What Are Sentences For Vehicle Homicide and What To Do When Charged With One

What Are Sentences For Vehicle Homicide and What To Do When Charged With One

(Atlanta, GA)

Vehicular homicide occurs when reckless driving results in the death of another party. It can occur due to the driver’s carelessness and disregard for safety, or unintentionally in cases like driving under the influence. Usually, reckless driving is more severe than simple negligence.

Whether you face vehicular homicide charges will depend on factors such as how the crash happened and whether the drivers contributed to the death. Read on to learn more about what sentences homicide by vehicle carries and what you can do if you find yourself in such a situation.



Sentences for Vehicular Homicide

The sentencing for vehicular homicide highly depends on the case's circumstances. Judges may look into the driver's criminal history, substance abuse, and past convictions to impose a stricter sentence than recommended. However, it is a serious crime that carries two main types of sentences; First-degree vehicular homicide and second-degree vehicular homicide.

First Degree Vehicular Homicide

According to the law, a first-degree vehicular homicide felony is causing unintentional death due to driving under the influence, a hit-and-run, and trying to escape a police officer. You also face first-degree vehicular homicide charges if the accident is due to reckless driving. Drivers who are habitual violators or have had their licenses revoked for at least three years face more outstanding charges with longer sentences per death.

A first-degree homicide by vehicle attracts a sentence of not less than three years and not more than 15 years for every death. Note that the sentences can pile depending on the number of those killed during the incident.

Second Degree Vehicular Homicide

A second-degree vehicular homicide sentence applies to deaths resulting from misdemeanor traffic offenses. These include speeding, using the phone while driving, not stopping at a stop sign or red light, and not yielding the right of way. You also get a second-degree sentence if the accident was caused by not maintaining your lane.

Drivers facing second-degree vehicular homicide get up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $1000 at the judge's discretion.

What to Do When You Are Charged with Vehicular Homicide

If you are charged with vehicular homicide, the first step you should take is to get in touch with a qualified and experienced criminal defense attorney. A good lawyer will guide you throughout the case and provide the necessary representation to reduce your penalties.

If you are in Atlanta, Georgia, facing vehicular homicide charges, the criminal defense attorneys at Davis Madden & Associates can help. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us build a case in your favor!

The material provided on this blog site does not/is not intended to constitute legal advice. All content is for general information only.