In Washington State, vehicular homicide is considered a Class A Felony. Washington State vehicle code, RCW 46.61.520, provides the penalty for vehicular homicide
Vehicular homicide can be charged if a person dies of their injuries within three years of an accident caused by a driver who was:
- Driving under the influence of liquor or any drug or combination thereof. In Washington State, a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08% is considered over the legal limit.
- Driving in a reckless manner.
- Driving with disregard to safety of others.
Vehicular homicide can be charged in car accidents, boating accidents, trucking accidents and motorcycle accidents.
The penalties for vehicular homicide can include the following:
- Revocation of a person's driver's license -- the driving privilege may be withheld until a person has completed an approved alcohol or drug treatment program.
- Jail time
- Electronic home monitoring
- Fines.
Wrongful Death
The family of a victim of vehicular homicide may also bring a civil suit against the driver for wrongful death. In a wrongful death suit, the family may recover damages for the negligent or wrongful act that caused their family member's death. Wrongful death suits are usually filed on behalf of the deceased by a surviving spouse, parent or child.
The Farber Law Group is a Washington legal firm experienced and knowledgeable in handling wrongful death claims. With the help of The Farber Law Group, you may be able to recover damages for the loss of your loved one.
Contact us today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
