Everything to Know About Vehicular Homicide in Georgia
Vehicular homicide is a serious crime in Georgia. It carries a heavy sentence and can have a devastating impact on the victim’s family, friends, and community. In this article, we’ll look at what constitutes vehicular homicide in Georgia and the punishments it carries.
What Is Vehicular Homicide in Georgia?
Vehicular homicide is a serious crime in Georgia that involves the death of another person due to the negligent or reckless operation of a motor vehicle. It is a felony offense that can lead to harsh penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence. In Georgia, vehicular homicide is classified as a first-degree or second-degree felony.
The crime of vehicular homicide occurs when a driver causes the death of another person due to negligent or reckless driving. This can include speeding, driving while intoxicated, or other forms of careless driving.
The law in Georgia makes it illegal to drive a vehicle in a manner that is likely to cause the death of another person.
What Are Felony and Misdemeanor Vehicular Homicide?
Vehicular homicide can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances of the incident.
Felony vehicular homicide is the most serious form of vehicular homicide and is considered a felony offense. This type of crime occurs when a driver is found to have been grossly negligent or reckless, leading to the death of another person.
Examples of this type of crime include driving while intoxicated (DWI), driving while under the influence of drugs (DUI), and drag racing. The punishment for felony vehicular homicide can range from jail time to a life sentence, depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it occurred.
Misdemeanor vehicular homicide is a less serious form of vehicular homicide and is considered a misdemeanor offense. This type of crime occurs when a driver is found to have been negligent, but not to the same degree as in felony vehicular homicide.
Examples of this type of crime include speeding, running a red light, and failing to yield. The punishment for misdemeanor vehicular homicide can range from a fine to jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction in which it occurred.
No matter the type of vehicular homicide, it is a serious crime that can have severe consequences for the driver and their family.
What Are the Penalties for Vehicular Homicide in Georgia?
In Georgia, vehicular homicide can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the act was committed as a result of reckless driving, it will generally be charged as a misdemeanor. This means that the offender can face up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. If the act was committed as a result of DUI, the offender can face up to five years in jail and a maximum fine of $5,000.
In addition to jail time and fines, a person convicted of vehicular homicide in Georgia can also have their license suspended or revoked. This suspension or revocation may last for up to five years, depending on the circumstances of the case.
The offender may also be required to complete community service, attend alcohol or drug treatment programs, and participate in other programs designed to reduce the risk of further offenses.
Final Thoughts
The penalties for vehicular homicide in Georgia are severe, and it is important for anyone facing such charges to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help to ensure that the accused’s rights are protected and that they receive the best possible outcome in their case.Do you need an automobile accident attorney in Monroe, GA? Contact us at Hanks, Ballard & Barth for a consultation.