A 22-year-old believed to have hit two pedestrians, killing one and injuring the other, in North Hollywood was arrested on June 11. The suspect, P.S., allegedly lost control of his car and hit the two men. He attempted to leave the area before being stopped by citizens. P.S. was arrested for felony manslaughter. His bail was set at $100,000.
An individual commits vehicular manslaughter when his or her faulty driving kills another. In addition to punishing individuals who are driving unlawfully, vehicular manslaughter punishes people for driving lawfully but dangerously or causing an accident to reap financial benefits. If you were not legally intoxicated during the time of the accident, you may be charged with lesser vehicular manslaughter charges that are not based on consumption of drugs or alcohol. If you were speeding, texting or killed a pedestrian who was crossing in a crosswalk, for example, you may face Penal Code 192(c) vehicular manslaughter charges.
Penal Code 192(c) can be tried as a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the case and your criminal history. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter, you may face a year in jail. You can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison if you are convicted of felony vehicular manslaughter and gross negligence.
In order to defend yourself from the punishments associated with felony manslaughter, you must prove that you did not cause the accident. Others' faulty driving, bad weather, poor road conditions and other factors may impact your fault in the case. The legal team at Diamond & Associates can work to reduce the charges you face.
Attorney Diamond is a State Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialist who is prepared to fight for your rights and freedom. He has tried over 2,500 felonies and misdemeanors and has the experience to defend you against vehicular manslaughter charges. To learn more about your legal options, take advantage of our free case evaluation or contact the firm today!
