Source: https://www.criminaldefenselawyersventura.com/dui/vehicular-manslaughter/
Timestamp: 2019-04-25 01:55:18+00:00

Document:
CA Penal Code § 192 states that manslaughter involves the unlawful killing of a person without malice. There are three types of manslaughter: voluntary, involuntary, and vehicular. Voluntary manslaughter may be confused with murder, since both crimes occur when the perpetrator willfully causes the death of another human being. However, CA penal Code § 192(a) states that voluntary manslaughter must occur in the heat of passion or during a sudden quarrel. Murder involves malice and premeditation.
Involuntary manslaughter does not involve the purposeful killing of another human being. A person commits involuntary manslaughter when he/she kills someone by accident while committing another crime. CA Penal Code § 192(b) states that involuntary manslaughter only occurs when the accompanying crime is not a felony offense. Like voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter does not involve the presence of malice. Additionally, involuntary manslaughter excludes any death that involves a motor vehicle.
Also known as "vehicular homicide," vehicular manslaughter occurs when a driver unlawfully kills another person while driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There are two types of DUI-related vehicular manslaughter: gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and standard vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Both of these offenses involve drunk driving and are punishable by extensive prison sentences and exorbitant fines. Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is made unlawful by California Penal Code § 191.5(a) and §191.5(b).
The term "negligence," in relation to CA Penal Code 191.5(b), occurs when the driver commits a careless act that a reasonable person would not have performed. Similarly, negligence can occur when a person fails to do something that a reasonable person would do.
According to CA Penal Code §191.5(a), gross vehicular manslaughter occurs when a drunk driver causes the death of another person while committing an act of gross negligence. Although standard vehicular manslaughter and gross vehicular manslaughter are very similar, the presence of gross negligence differentiates between the two crimes. In order to convict you of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, prosecutors must demonstrate that you drove under the influence of alcohol or drugs; that you committed an act of gross negligence; and that the negligent act was responsible for the death of another person.
Gross vehicular manslaughter is a felony offense, punishable by four, six, or ten years in prison. If you were convicted of two or more prior DUI offenses, or one prior DUI manslaughter charge, you may be subject to a life sentence in a California State prison. The term "gross negligence" usually refers to an action that indicates a general disregard or indifference toward human life. Like standard negligence, this can also refer to an individual who fails to take action. The distinction between standard negligence and gross negligence can only be determined in a court of law.
Does vehicular manslaughter always involve DUI?
Vehicular manslaughter is a serious crime – especially if it involves drug or alcohol impairment. Don't risk your freedom, future, and reputation by settling for a lawyer without the qualifications and determination to obtain the case results that you need. At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP we have spent more than 50 collective years developing a reputation for excellence in criminal defense. Our team of Ventura criminal defense attorneys believes that everyone deserves high-quality legal assistance. Call our office for a free evaluation of your case or contact us to see what Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP can do for you.

References: § 192
 § 192
 § 192
 § 191
 §191
 §191