Understanding vehicular homicide and vehicular manslaughter

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 3,084 people died in vehicle collisions in Florida in 2020.

When drivers cause an accident that results in the death of another person, they may get charged with vehicular homicide or vehicular manslaughter. Each charge is unique and carries different sentences.

What is vehicular homicide?

Aggressive and reckless driving that leads to a crash and death of another person can result in a charge of vehicular homicide. The courts consider the charge of vehicular homicide even if drivers did not intend to harm anyone but because they acted willfully without regard to others’ safety.

These charges may require up to a $10,000 fine, 120 hours of community service and up to 15 years in jail. If the at-fault driver fails to give aid or cooperate with law enforcement at the scene, the sentence may increase to a first-degree felony with a maximum of 30 years to life in prison.

How is vehicular manslaughter different than vehicular homicide?

If drivers operate a vehicle while intoxicated and cause a crash that results in the death of another person, they could get charged with vehicular manslaughter. This offense is also a second-degree felony or first-degree if the driver fails to provide assistance after the crash. The difference is DUI manslaughter carries a mandatory minimum sentence of four years. Additionally, drivers may need to undergo addiction treatment, drive with an ignition lock and might lose their license.

Both vehicular manslaughter and vehicular homicide are serious convictions with long-term consequences. Being aware of the sentencing options may encourage drivers to consider their driving actions before operating a vehicle.