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Hit and run charges in Rhode Island
Motor Vehicle Homicide, Hit and Run, or Vehicular Manslaughter is a charge that is divided into a felony count and a misdemeanor count with the criteria differing only on one point.
In order to obtain a conviction for both charges, prosecutors must prove that:
- You were in operation of the vehicle
- You were under the influence of a controlled substance or intoxicating substances
- You operated the vehicle negligently or recklessly
- And that another person died as a result of the accident
What is the difference between felony Motor Vehicle Homicide and a misdemeanor charge?
The difference between a felony charge and a misdemeanor charge is your involvement in the death. If the victim died as a direct result of your actions in your vehicle, it is a felony charge. If the victim died, but may have or would have died whether you were there or not, even though you were involved in the accident, then it is a misdemeanor.
The penalties for reckless endangerment death resulting are 2 and a half years in prison for a misdemeanor, and up to 15 years in prison for a felony, with a one-year mandatory sentencing guideline.
Charged with hit and run? Contact the Rhode Island Motor Vehicle Defense Attorney John L. Calcagni, III today email or call today at (401) 351-5100 to schedule a free consultation.
