If You’ve Been Charged With Involuntary Vehicular Manslaughter, Help Is Available. We’ll Walk You Through What to Do Next.
Motor vehicle accidents are a terrible experience for all involved – especially accidents that result in a death. If you were involved in an accident and are facing consequences for involuntary vehicular manslaughter, it is vital that you contact a defense attorney who can help right away. Here we’ll explain how an attorney can help protect your future.
If you or a loved one has been charged with involuntary vehicular manslaughter, contact the defense attorneys at Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP today to discuss the details of your case: (508) 570-3037 or fill out a contact form online.
What Is Involuntary Vehicular Manslaughter?
A driver may be charged with manslaughter by motor vehicle, sometimes called “involuntary vehicular manslaughter,” when they cause an accident that results in the death of a passenger, pedestrian or occupants of other cars. Wanton or reckless driving – the kind that creates a high likelihood of human harm – is presumed to be the cause of the accident. Common examples of wanton or reckless driving include driving under the influence of alcohol or prescription drugs, or disobeying traffic rules like speed limits.
No matter the circumstances of the accident, it is important to take any charges seriously and hire an experienced lawyer right away. Involuntary vehicular manslaughter charges can result in significant jail time, heavy fines, and other consequences. You’ll want to be prepared to defend your rights with a strong advocate on your side.
What Defenses Are Available to Me?
Manslaughter by motor vehicle, or involuntary vehicular manslaughter charges, commonly allege that the driver who caused the accident was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. One possible defense in this situation is to argue that the evidence of the driver’s blood alcohol content was obtained unlawfully and should be excluded from the case.
Alternatively, defense attorneys can sometimes argue that an underlying medical or other condition, not drugs or alcohol, was the source of the behavior that caused the accident.
The defense may also provide evidence that it was something other than the driver’s behavior that caused the accident. This defense uses an “unforeseeable intervening event” to make a claim for the driver’s innocence.
Where no obvious defenses are available, an attorney may be able to help you negotiate a more favorable sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. Involuntary vehicular manslaughter cases are treated aggressively by the prosecution and require someone with skill and experience to help you understand and navigate your best defenses.
Experienced Defense Attorneys for Involuntary Vehicular Manslaughter
If you are facing involuntary vehicular manslaughter charges, you want the best attorney in order to stand the best chance of fighting for a more favorable outcome. A knowledgeable defense lawyer knows your rights and is well-positioned to help you navigate your case and protect your future. Our lawyers at Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP can help. To request a free consultation or to simply get in touch, call (508) 570-3037 or fill out a contact form on the website.
Source: Massachusetts Involuntary Manslaughter and Motor Vehicle Homicide Laws – FindLaw