Everyone makes mistakes behind the wheel. It could be missing a stop sign, driving too fast or misjudging a turn. But when those errors involve alcohol and result in the unthinkable loss of life, the consequences can be devastating.
Driving while intoxicated is extremely dangerous and causes thousands of preventable deaths each year. In Arkansas, causing a death due to drunken driving can lead to severe felony charges.
Potential felony charges
In Arkansas, causing the death of another person while driving under the influence can lead to serious felony charges. The exact charge and potential penalties depend on the case’s specific circumstances.
- Negligent homicide: In Arkansas, causing the death of another person through negligent conduct, such as driving while intoxicated, falls under negligent homicide. This is a Class B felony punishable by five to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Vehicular homicide: If the DWI homicide involved reckless conduct, it qualifies as a vehicular homicide charge. Vehicular homicide is a Class Y felony in Arkansas, punishable by ten to 40 years or life in prison.
- Manslaughter: Depending on the specific circumstances, a DWI homicide could potentially be a manslaughter charge, which is a Class C felony in Arkansas. Manslaughter carries a potential sentence of three to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravated factors that can increase charges
Certain aggravating factors can increase the severity of the charges and potential penalties, such as prior DWI convictions, extremely high blood alcohol level, fleeing the scene of the accident or when there were minors in the vehicle.
Legal steps to take
Facing DWI charges is a serious matter, and the laws involving DWI-related deaths may be complicated and overwhelming. The penalties vary depending on the circumstances, and you may want to seek legal professionals who can help and guide you through this challenging time.
