Driving after consuming alcoholic beverages always has the potential to lead to unfortunate results. These results can manifest in many different ways. Some examples may include a traffic stop specifically for suspected drunk driving, a routine traffic violation that turns into a charge for driving while intoxicated or a car accident.

When there is a car accident involving an individual who has been drinking and driving the consequences can be very severe no matter what types of injuries the other parties have suffered. However, when one or more individuals suffers a fatal injury as a result of the car accident, the driver who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol may face criminal charges. This is the case for a man who was recently involved in a fatal accident in New York.

According to police reports, the 42-year-old driver hit a pedestrian at around 4:30 in the morning. After hitting the pedestrian the man allegedly crashed into a parked vehicle. Police state that after the accident the man refused to take a breath test. He and his 35-year-old female passenger were both transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The pedestrian suffered fatal injuries.

According to authorities, the man has previously been convicted for drinking and driving and was also driving without a license. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter.

A criminal charge such as vehicular manslaughter can carry with it potential consequences that can have a lifelong impact on the defendant if he is convicted. These consequences may include monetary fines, a jail sentence and much more. However, it is important that defendants in these types of cases understand that they are entitled to a fair trial and that they should defend their case. If handled in the right manner and stringently defended, they may be able to obtain a less severe punishment or be cleared of all charges.

Source: Newsday, “Suspected drunk driver charged in deadly NYC crash,” July 5, 2014