There Is a Steep Price to Pay if You Are Convicted of Vehicular Homicide Charges in Scranton

In Scranton, when a person drives recklessly or negligently, resulting in killing another person, they can be charged with vehicular homicide. Penalties can result in as much as seven years in jail and up to $15,000 in fines. You may also face a civil trial if family members of the deceased decide to pursue damages for their losses. With a conviction such as this one on your permanent record, it may be difficult to find a job or a place to live upon release.

Many circumstances can increase the penalties for vehicular homicide. For example, if you kill someone while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you can face added prison time and fines. This would be considered a second-degree felony with a minimum of three years in prison and a maximum of 10 years, in addition to a $25,000 fine for each person’s death.

Vehicular Homicide Must Meet the Standards of Negligence for a Conviction

Before you can be convicted of vehicular homicide, you must meet a series of causation tests that define the standard for negligence.

A prosecutor must prove the following:

• That you acted recklessly or were grossly negligent

• That you did cause a death

• That the death took place while you were breaking a traffic law

• That breaking that law resulted in the death

Your attorney can create reasonable doubt for any of these and provide a solid defense for your case.

Get Immediate Legal Representation If You Have Been Charged with Vehicular Homicide

Peters Law Firm provides results-driven, affordable, and compassionate legal representation for clients in Scranton, Clarks Summit, and surrounding Northeastern Pennsylvania communities.

If you need a criminal lawyer or assistance with a criminal matter, contact us for a free initial consultation at our main office in Clark’s Summit, our Scranton area office, or our Tunkhannock and Wyoming County Office today.