Los Angeles DUI defense attorneys handle vehicular manslaughter charges on a regular basis for people in various positions in society. As Los Angeles is made up of movie stars, CEO's, house moms and mechanics, the scope of people represented by Los Angeles DUI defense attorneys is broad and diverse.
Bus driver Quintin Watts was charged with vehicular manslaughter in a California court Wednesday stemming from an accident last October. Watts, 52, was driving a bus with several passengers to a Northern California casino and resort when he reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. Eleven passengers died from the resulting crash. Watts, who is facing up to 20 years in a state prison if convicted, has a history of substance abuse and driving offenses. No mention was made as to whether or not Watts was actually under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.
Vehicular manslaughter may often stem from an accident, but California law threats the offense seriously, classifying it as a felony criminal offense. Vehicular manslaughter in general is reckless or negligent behavior while driving that results in the death of another person. If the resulting crash and injuries are found to be alcohol-related, then the incident is classified as Vehicular Manslaughter-DUI. Most Vehicular Manslaughter-DUI cases garner up to four years in a state prison if the defendant is convicted. If "gross" or extreme negligence or recklessness can be proved by prosecutors, then a defendant could get as many as 10 years in a state prison. In Watts' case, with 11 potential deaths stemming from the accident means multiple charges, which simply elongates his prison sentence if he is convicted.
If you are being charged with vehicular manslaughter in Los Angeles, call the attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. Our combined 50 years of courtroom experience is the asset you need when you are facing serious criminal charges and a long prison sentence. Well-versed in both vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence cases, our attorneys know that sometimes poor road or weather conditions can play a bigger part in car accidents than prosecutors would care to admit.
A capable criminal defense attorney may also be able to prove that you were not actually intoxicated at the time of the accident. Call today to see what your options are and begin preparing your defense.
