California Vehicle Homicide
On August 1, a pedestrian was struck and killed on the sidewalk because of the actions of a suspected drunk driver. According to the police, the accident occurred in the Fairfax District around 10:30 p.m. at Melrose and Martel Avenues. The suspected driver was behind the wheel of a 2018 Infiniti Q60S traveling east on Melrose when he struck a 2017 Acura MDX that was turning onto Martel Avenue. The impact of the crash sent the Acura careening off the road and onto the sidewalk, where it collided with the 24-year-old victim. The victim was sent to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center with severe injuries, and he later died. The driver of the Infiniti was accused of driving under the influence when he caused the crash and was charged with gross vehicular manslaughter. If a similar situation has happened to you or a loved one, call the Law Office of Bradley S. Sandler in Los Angeles today to speak with a knowledgeable attorney about your case.
What is Vehicular Homicide?
Under California law, vehicular homicide occurs when a driver causes the death of another person while driving a vehicle negligently or committing another act that may cause death. Some of the most common causes of vehicular homicide charges include accusations of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, committing a traffic violation like changing lanes illegally, or driving recklessly. If under the influence of alcohol or drugs when the fatal accident took place, the charge can be elevated to gross vehicular manslaughter, which comes with even more severe penalties for the crash.
Penalties for Vehicular Homicide
The penalties for this crime are determined by whether you are charged with ordinary or gross vehicular manslaughter. Ordinary vehicular homicide is considered a misdemeanor crime, and the penalties include a jail sentence up to one year, fines, the suspension of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record. For gross vehicular manslaughter, you can either be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony offense. If charged with a felony, the penalties can include up to six years in state prison, thousands of dollars in fines and court fees, the suspension of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record.
If you or someone you know is charged with vehicular homicide, it is critical that you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. There are many valid defenses to a charge of ordinary or gross vehicular homicide, and a knowledgeable defense attorney can review the facts of your case to determine the best possible arguments for your innocence. Do not speak with the police, family members, or anyone else before talking to a lawyer about your case.
Talk to Our Office Today
To learn more about your legal options following an arrest for vehicular homicide, call the office or contact us today at the Law Office of Bradley S. Sandler in Los Angeles today. Schedule a free consultation of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney now.