In this blog we are going to tell you about Vehicular Manslaughter Canada, so read this blog carefully to get the complete information.
Vehicular Manslaughter is a word that you might have heard if you have ever been involved in a car accident that resulted in someone’s death. But do you know what this word means and why it is used?
In this article, you will get to know the meaning of vehicular Manslaughter in Canada and what are the penalties faced by the person if he is involved in such a case.
About Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular Manslaughter in Canada means criminal negligence that causes the death of another person while driving a vehicle. Now, what does it mean by criminal negligence? Criminal negligence is an act that shows a person’s wanton or reckless disregard for the lives of others while driving an automobile.
The reason for this type of accident may be due to the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving, speeding, car racing, or other risk factors. If you have met with an accident that resulted in another person’s death then you will be charged with Vehicular Manslaughter.
Additionally, if you are involved in an accident that caused someone’s death and you ran from that place then you, it will result in a hit-and-run case and you will be charged with Vehicular Manslaughter.
Penalties faced in the case of Vehicular Manslaughter
For Vehicular Manslaughter the penalties are decided based on the severity of the crime. In Canada, if you have been convicted of Vehicular Manslaughter you are more likely to face a prison sentence as a penalty. But the sentence for the reason will depend on how bad the offense was and if the situation has become worse. For instance, at the time of the accident if you were simply speeding then there are chances that the punishment is not worse, but if you got driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol then you will receive a harsher penalty than simply speeding.
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Minimum Penalties faced by the convict
The minimum penalty faced in the case of vehicular Manslaughter is a prison for 2 years. To be convicted of the crime the crown prospectus must prove that you were driving recklessly. The minimum fine faced by a person who is convicted of vehicular manslaughter ranges from $2000 – $50,000.
Maximum penalties faced by the convict
In Canada, the maximum penalty faced by a person who is connected to vehicular manslaughter is 10 years in prison. For most harsh cases 10 years of prison is the maximum and during the period even non-parole periods must be served. But if the person is convicted in the case of involuntary manslaughter, it will probably sentence you to a minimum of 2 years in prison.
What types of legal defenses can be used by a person?
In Canada if you are convicted of vehicular manslaughter then you can use a few legal defenses that are as follows:
- The first legal defense that can help you in your case is the evidence that at the time of the accident you were not the one driving the car. To back up this claim you can use video footage or eyewitness testimony if available.
- Another defense is proving that at the time of the accident you were not acting negligently. For instance, you can use some evidence to prove that you were not speeding or under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident.
- If you can prove that your actions did not cause the death then that can be another defense for your case. For instance, after the accident, if the victim died of a heart attack you can prove that you are not guilty and this would not be considered vehicular manslaughter.
- The last legal defense through which you can prove yourself not guilty is to explain your behavior. Give a good explanation of your behavior and intentions, even if they seem negligent in court.
What is the Compensation provided to the victim’s family?
In Canada, the family of a person killed in a car accident may be eligible for certain compensation such as funeral expenses and loss of future earnings may be redeemed by the survivors of that person.
Depending on the certain circumstances in your case the amount of compensation may vary. You will probably have to pay the compensation to the victim’s family if you are convicted of vehicular manslaughter. Additionally, one thing you should remember is that the victim’s family may also charge you in a civil lawsuit which is different from any criminal charges you may face.
How can a lawyer help in the case of Vehicular Manslaughter?
In Canada, if you are sentenced to vehicular manslaughter it is important to have a lawyer on your side as they will help you to find the evidence and decide which defenses will work best in your case. On your behalf, the lawyer can also negotiate with the Crown prospector to get a lighter sentence
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The final words
Vehicular manslaughter is considered a serious offense in Canada and the penalties can also be harsh. If you are convicted you probably have to face prison but you can use a few legal defenses to save yourself. If you ever get charged with vehicular manslaughter it is always best to contact a lawyer.
Conclusion
We Hope this blog is sufficient enough to provide the information about Vehicular Manslaughter Canada. Thanks for reading this blog.
