Vehicular homicide and negligent driving are both serious traffic offenses. However, they carry different legal consequences.
Understanding what each charge includes can help you know what to expect.
Vehicular homicide
Vehicular homicide typically involves a more serious level of accountability than negligent driving. In Washington state, vehicular homicide often involves:
- Reckless driving: Operating a vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others.
- Intoxication: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Speeding: Driving at an excessive or unreasonable speed.
- Distracted driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from the road, such as texting or using a cell phone.
Vehicular homicide charges can carry significant penalties. These may include imprisonment, fines, and the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. Having a prior offense can increase the penalty.
Negligent driving
While still a serious offense, negligent driving generally involves a less severe level of fault than vehicular homicide. It typically involves a less intentional or reckless disregard for safety. Examples of negligent driving can include failing to yield the right-of-way, following too closely, or driving while fatigued.
Penalties for negligent driving may include fines, traffic tickets, and driver’s license points.
Key differences
The main difference between vehicular homicide and negligent driving is in the level of responsibility assigned. Vehicular homicide typically involves a higher degree of recklessness or intentional disregard for safety.
Anyone facing vehicular-related criminal charges in Washington needs to understand the possible penalties.