Reckless Driving as Involuntary Manslaughter

Car accidents are a part of life. But when a person dies as a result of a car accident, it is a tragic and serious event. When this happens, police are called to determine the circumstances of the accident. Sometimes the police will charge the driver with reckless driving. If the police or prosecutor believe a driver was criminally negligent, that driver can be charged with Involuntary Manslaughter. Frequently, the charge of Involuntary Manslaughter is brought after the investigation by police and prosecutors.

Involuntary Manslaughter is a Class 5 Felony

A Class 5 Felony is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than 10 years, or in the discretion of the jury or the court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.

Whether or not criminal negligence exists in a particular case is determined by the facts. What was the driving behavior? What traffic lights or road signs are in the area to direct driving? What were the road conditions? Were the vehicles involved in good working order? What information is contained in the Crash Data Recorder? What can the location of vehicle impact tell us about the crash? What evidence might the police point to in an attempt to show that a driver may have been distracted?

If you are charged with Involuntary Manslaughter, answers to these and other questions need to be examined by an experienced attorney. Knowledge about how to approach Involuntarily Manslaughter cases comes from having handled them. As a former prosecutor, Fitz has prosecuted these cases and understands what facts and evidence may be important in your case.

We can look at your case, explore possible issues and determine the best course of action for you. We can help. You don’t have to do this alone.