Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

car accident

im a writer working on my first novel and i need some help. what i need to know is if someone fell asleep will driving, ran a red light and hit another car killing the driver, what type of crime would that fall under? there are no drugs or alcohol involved, just a accidential mistake that unfortunately caused a death of another. would there be jail time? how long of a sentence? would they be incarcerated and a minimum or maximum prison?

would it be involuntary manslaughter?


Asked on 2/03/09, 2:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
John Davidson Law Office of John A. Davidson

Re: car accident

I would say vehicular homicide. You're supposed to stay awake when driving. Any form of substance abuse, as well as reckless driving which leads to a fatality, may lead to these charges. Reckless endangerment in the form of drag racing and other illegal driving behavior can land you in serious trouble. Even if you never intended to hurt anyone and did not realize the danger, you may still end up facing charges for what amounts to involuntary manslaughter.

Involuntary Manslaughter is a misdemeanor of the 1st degree. Up to 5 years in jail and/or a fine up to $10,000.

{John}

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Answered on 2/03/09, 3:31 pm


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