An auto accident that involves injury or death as a result of the use of alcohol or drugs in Arizona can result in serious criminal charges. Leaving the scene of an accident can further add to those charges. Vehicular assaults and manslaughter cases are viewed very seriously in Arizona and they are prosecuted seriously as well.
Although auto accidents may not be seen so critically by some, the state of Arizona aggressively prosecutes reckless driving cases. This means that even if the driver had no intent of injuring someone or causing harm, they may still end up receiving a serious sentence if convicted for a vehicular crime. Some of the penalties include probation, fines, loss of the driver’s license, community service, counseling, jail time, and even prison sentence.
What is considered a Vehicular Crime in Arizona?
In Arizona, Vehicular crimes include, and are not limited to any of the following:
Endangerment (A.R.S. § 13-1201)
Most auto accident cases in Arizona will usually result in the addition of a separate felony charge of endangerment by the prosecution which is defined as recklessly endangering another person with a substantial risk of imminent death or personal injury. Endangerment is considered a class 6 felony in Arizona if there was a substantial risk of death to the victim. The offender can face a possible sentence of up to 3 years in prison.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident (A.R.S. § 28-661)
If a person knowingly leaves the scene of an auto accident involving injury or death, without providing reasonable assistance to the victim, then they can be charged with a felony hit-and-run. If the accident does not result in serious injury or death, it is considered a class 5 felony which carries a prison sentence of up to 2.5 years. In case of serious injury or death, it is considered a class 3 felony with a possible sentence of 8.75 years in prison. In more serious cases, the offense may be considered a class 2 felony, carrying a prison sentence of up to 12.5 years. The driver may face other criminal convictions in relation to the accident as well.
Negligent Homicide (A.R.S. § 13-1102)
A driver that causes death of another person in Arizona can be charged with criminal negligence. This may happen when the person is driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other controlled substance. A negligent homicide is considered a serious felony crime charge in Arizona and a conviction in this case can result in a prison sentence of up to 3.75 years for a first time offense.
Aggravated Assault by Vehicle (A.R.S. § 13-1204)
A driver who causes serious injury to another person can be charged with aggravated assault, which means recklessly causing physical injury to another. It is considered a serious felony criminal charge and may be prosecuted as a “dangerous offense”. An aggravated assault conviction is a class 3 felony and can result in a mandatory prison sentence between 5 to 15 years.
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs
The state of Arizona considers anyone driving a motor vehicle with drugs or a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or more to be driving under the influence (DUI). The penalties for a first, second, or a third offense DUI include jail time, fines and penalties, driver’s license suspension, and installation of an ignition interlock device.
Unlawful flight (A.R.S. § 28-622)
A driver of a motor vehicle who willfully flees or attempts to elude a pursuing official law enforcement vehicle is guilty of a class 5 felony.
A vehicular crime in Arizona can have an impact on the person, their family, their college or employment, as well as other aspects of their life in general. If you have been involved in an auto accident in Arizona, or are facing a vehicular crime charge in Phoenix, Arizona, it is important to get in touch with Attorney Brian Sloan immediately. His practice is solely focused on DUI and vehicular-related offenses and he has represented clients in all sorts of vehicular crimes, including misdemeanors and felonies.
If you have been charged with an Arizona vehicular crime, it is important to get in touch with an Arizona vehicular offenses criminal defense attorney. Call the law offices of Brian D. Sloan at 480-900-0384 or (602) 357-8980 for a FREE initial consultation so you can discuss and evaluate your case.
Attorney Brian Sloan has several years of experience of solely focusing on DUI and vehicular-related offenses which sets him apart from other attorneys. He will fight your case and provide a strong criminal defense to negotiate with the prosecutors and get the vehicular offense charges reduced or dismissed completely.
