While usually less severe than murder, a vehicular manslaughter charge is still an incredibly serious legal matter. Without a sound defense, you could face years of incarceration and thousands in fines.
Understanding the severity of your situation and exploring potential defense options can offer some hope and direction during a difficult time.
Lack of negligence
One potential defense is demonstrating that your conduct did not meet the legal standards for gross or criminal negligence. More specifically, it means showing that your actions did not substantially deviate from what a reasonable and prudent driver would do under similar circumstances.
Lack of causation
Another possibility is challenging the causation element of the charge. This involves showing that your actions were not the direct cause of the person’s death. If there were other contributing factors or intervening events, you may be able to show that your conduct did not directly cause the fatality.
Mechanical failure or defect
You can also argue that a mechanical failure or defect in the vehicle caused the accident, rather than your negligence. If you can provide evidence that the accident was due to a malfunction or defect, this defense may help in reducing or dismissing the charges.
Involuntary intoxication
In some cases, involuntary intoxication can be used as a defense. This occurs when you were unknowingly drugged or intoxicated without your knowledge or consent. Of course, you must be able to prove you were involuntarily impaired, which can be challenging without legal help.
The takeaway is to never assume you have no defense against serious charges. Instead, be proactive and seek guidance from someone with experience defending against vehicular manslaughter in Maryland.