DeKalb County Vehicular Homicide Lawyer
When someone loses their life in an auto accident, the person who caused the accident may face charges of vehicular homicide. In these instances, vehicular homicide can be classified as either first or second degree. Regardless of the degree you have been charged with, it is important to know that these charges are very serious. It is essential that you obtain legal help to defend against these charges. Below, our DeKalb County vehicular homicide lawyer explains more about these charges and the defenses available in these cases.
What is Vehicular Homicide in DeKalb County?
In its simplest terms, vehicular homicide refers to when a driver causes someone else’s death after causing an accident with their vehicle. First-degree vehicular homicide is classified as a felony in DeKalb County. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must generally show that the driver was operating a vehicle while under the influence, or that they committed another serious driving offense. These offenses include:
- Overtaking a school bus
- Reckless driving
- Fleeing or attempting to evade a police officer
- Hit and run
Any other type of traffic violation that results in someone’s death is classified as second-degree vehicular homicide.
Habitual Violators and Vehicular Homicide
Individuals may also be charged with felony vehicular homicide if they are considered a habitual offender. A habitual offender is defined as a person who has been convicted of three or more serious traffic-related offenses within five years. The traffic-related offenses that can classify a person as a habitual violator are the same as those listed above, including DUI charges.
Penalties for Vehicular Homicide
Again, vehicular homicide changes can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. The penalty for felony vehicular homicide is 3 to 15 years in prison. Misdemeanor vehicular homicide charges are punishable by up to one year in jail, a maximum $1,000 fine, or both.
Individuals convicted of vehicular homicide can also be sued by the surviving loved ones of the victim. A civil law judge may award surviving family members damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and other losses they have suffered as a result.
A conviction for vehicular homicide will also result in a driver’s license suspension. A misdemeanor conviction will result in a maximum suspension of 12 months. A felony vehicular homicide conviction will result in a three-year driver’s license suspension.
In addition to all of the above penalties, a conviction for vehicular homicide can also impact the daily life of those convicted. A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult to obtain employment, housing, academic scholarships and admissions, and other opportunities.
Call Our DeKalb County Vehicular Homicide Lawyer Today
Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, charges of vehicular homicide are very serious. At The Spizman Firm, our vehicular homicide lawyer in DeKalb County has the necessary experience to build the solid defense you need, ensure your rights are protected, and help you retain your freedom. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help with your case.
