Legal Definitions - Vehicular homicide

Definition: Vehicular homicide is a crime that occurs when someone causes the death of another person while unlawfully or negligently operating a motor vehicle. It is also known as automobile homicide or vehicular manslaughter. The laws regarding vehicular homicide vary depending on the jurisdiction, but it is generally easier to prove than manslaughter because it requires a less culpable mental state.

Examples:

• A driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol and causes a fatal accident could be charged with vehicular homicide.
• A driver who is texting while driving and causes a fatal accident could also be charged with vehicular homicide.

These examples illustrate how vehicular homicide occurs when someone causes the death of another person while operating a motor vehicle in an unlawful or negligent manner. It is important for drivers to always follow traffic laws and avoid distractions while driving to prevent accidents and avoid being charged with vehicular homicide.