The Serious Consequences of Vehicular Manslaughter – PC 192(c)
Speeding can cost more than just your freedom, it can cost lives. California’s vehicular manslaughter laws punish acts of driving that kill another person because of the driver:
- Drives in an unlawful way,
- Drives in a lawful but dangerous way, or
- Knowingly causes the accident for financial gain.
Consequences of Vehicular Manslaughter
The District Attorney’s office can charge you with violating Penal Code section 192(c) if you kill another person while engaging in a speed contest or exhibition. “Vehicular Manslaughter” in California is also a “wobbler” offense. The prosecutor assigned to your case usually decides to charge this offense as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the facts of your case and your criminal history.
A misdemeanor conviction of vehicular manslaughter is punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for up to one year. A felony conviction for violating PC192(c) will result in a prison sentence of between two and 10 years.
Civil Liability for a Conviction of Vehicular Manslaughter
You face the real possibility that the family of the person(s) you killed will sue you in civil court in addition to any criminal penalties you may suffer as a result of a conviction for vehicular manslaughter. If you are found civilly liable for the death of the victim, you could be ordered to pay damages that could exceed a million dollars.
Contact a California Criminal Defense Lawyer if You are Charged with Vehicular Manslaughter
You need to speak to an attorney at Wallin & Klarich right away if you are facing a vehicular manslaughter charge. At Wallin and Klarich, we have over 40 years of experience successfully defending our clients who have been charged with driving-related offenses. We are familiar with all of the elements that the district attorney must prove in order to convict you of this crime.
With offices in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Torrance, Tustin, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, West Covina and Victorville, the knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich are available 24/7 to help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
Call us at (877) 4-NO-JAIL or (877) 466-5245 for a free telephone consultation. We will get through this together.
