If you've ever been in a car accident that resulted in a fatality, you're well aware of this dreadful feeling. You could even be feeling guilty for surviving, or you might be suffering from your own agony and injuries. It's a terrifying thought to consider that you may be blamed for someone else's mortality. A traumatic accident may leave mental scars that last a lifetime, not to forget the misery of any probable physical damage. Even if the accident was not your fault, it is nevertheless a difficult and upsetting experience to go through.

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If you have been charged with vehicular homicide, it is important that you consult with a criminal defense attorney. When working with our law firm, you will have an experienced attorney who will provide an aggressive representation so that you can have the best chance to get your case resolved. We offer free consultations to help you determine what your next steps need to be.

In the alleged vehicular homicide, the defendant faces significant criminal charges. When another person or an unborn child dies as a result of the operation of a motor vehicle with a high level of criminal responsibility, the driver can be prosecuted with second-degree murder, manslaughter, or negligent homicide under Arizona law.

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Different Types of Vehicular Homicide include:

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• Manslaughter: The difference between vehicular manslaughter and negligent homicide involving a vehicle is minor. When a driver's "reckless" driving results in the death of another person, they may be prosecuted with vehicular manslaughter. To drive "recklessly," a motorist must do or fail to do anything that puts others at risk, and the motorist must be aware that their actions do so. A large percentage of vehicle murders fall into this group. 

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• Second-Degree Murder: The distinction between negligent homicide and manslaughter is slight, as is the distinction between manslaughter and second-degree murder. A driver convicted of second-degree murder acted in reckless behavior that put another person in severe danger. It is a class 1 felony. 

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• Negligent Homicide: When a driver causes the death of another person while driving in a criminally negligent manner, they may be charged with negligent homicide. When a person unwittingly acts or fails to do anything that puts others in significant and unjustified danger, this is known as criminal negligence. The driver in issue is completely unaware of the risk he or she is putting others in.

In Arizona, there are different variations of Vehicular Homicide that can be charged to an individual. Because of this, it’s important to evaluate the potential penalties based on the specific charge you or a loved one may be facing.

• Manslaughter: Manslaughter is a class 2 felony. Penalties may include up to $150,000 in penalties and three to twelve years in jail.

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• Second-Degree Murder: The consequences are serious and include 10 to 25 years in jail; Penalties of up to $150,000. If the person who died as a result of the defendant's actions was under the age of 12, the defendant might receive life in prison.

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• ‍Negligent Homicide: In Arizona, negligent homicide is a class 4 felony. Penalties might include Up to $150,000 in penalties and up to three years in jail.