If you were involved in a traffic accident that resulted in fatality, you could find yourself facing criminal charges. If the prosecution can establish that you were intoxicated or otherwise grossly negligent, the crime is a felony with the real possibility of prison time.
The criminal defense lawyers of Cochran & Chhabra, LLC provide a sophisticated defense for these very serious charges. If you have been questioned in relation to a fatal accident or arrested for DUI homicide or vehicular manslaughter, we are available 24/7 to advise you and assert your rights.
Our Annapolis law firm handles DUI defense and serious traffic crimes in Anne Arundel County, Queen Anne's County, Howard County and throughout Maryland. Contact us immediately for a free consultation.
DUI Homicide And Vehicular Manslaughter
Maryland statute makes it a felony to cause the death of another person while operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent manner (vehicular manslaughter) or while impaired by alcohol or drugs (homicide by motor vehicle while impaired or while under the influence).
DUI-related homicide (fatal drunk driving accident) is punishable by imprisonment of up to three years (DWI) or five years (DUI) and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Vehicular manslaughter carries a potential prison term of up to 10 years plus a fine up to $5,000. While homicide by motor vehicle requires evidence of intoxication or impairment, the threshold for vehicular manslaughter is "gross negligence," which might apply to:
- Driving the wrong way on a highway or street
- Egregious speeding (70 mph in a 30 mph zone)
- Drag racing or fleeing police
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Driving without headlights
- Operating a vehicle after taking certain prescription medications
- Hitting a pedestrian or bicyclist in a crosswalk or bike lane
- Other reckless disregard for safety
Experienced DUI Defense Attorneys
While the standard of proof is high for vehicular manslaughter or DUI homicide, the consequences of a conviction demand smart and aggressive representation as early as possible. Trial lawyers Gill Cochran and Mandeep Chhabra have 60 years of combined criminal law experience. They can skillfully attack the DUI/DWI aspect of homicide by vehicle while impaired and exhaust your defenses and explore your options for charges of vehicular manslaughter.
For a free consultation to discuss your case with experienced Annapolis DUI attorneys, call Cochran and Chhabra, LLC, toll free at 888.268.5515 or contact us online.
