In the early morning of June 17, 2020, a single-car accident took place in Frisco, Texas. According to reports, a passenger was killed during a fatal accident that took place on Highway 380 just east of Legacy Drive.
Law enforcement officers say that a gray BMW was driving over the speed limit, and the driver seemed to have lost control of the vehicle. The car ended up rolling over several times, and during this occurrence, the passenger was ejected from their seat. The passenger was treated at a local hospital after being transported by first responders, but she was later pronounced dead. According to the reports, the driver is still alive. Their identity has not been made known to the public, but they have reportedly been treated for minor injuries and subsequently arrested for intoxication manslaughter.
This car crash serves as an example of why law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges are so stern when punishing DWI and DWI-related offenses. Drunk drivers affect innocent lives every time they decide to enter public roadways while under the influence of alcohol. In this case, the passenger was killed as the result of drunk driving, and the driver of the vehicle only suffered minor injuries. In other cases that involve multiple vehicles, entire families are killed as a result of a serious car accident that is the fault of the intoxicated driver.
Intoxication Manslaughter Laws in Texas
According to Texas Penal Code § 49.08, individuals are guilty of intoxication manslaughter if they are found operating a motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or amusement ride while intoxicated and accidentally cause the death of another individual. Section 49.01(2) of the Texas Penal Code defines “Intoxicated” as not having the normal use of physical or mental faculties due to the consumption of alcohol, controlled substances, drugs, or any combination of these things. “Intoxication” also takes place when an individual is found to have an alcohol concentration that exceeds 0.008.
Typically, intoxication manslaughter is classified as a second-degree felony, and it carries penalties such as 2 to 20 years behind bars in addition to a mandatory fine of up to $10,000. Intoxication manslaughter can be upgraded to a first-degree felony if the alleged offender has caused serious injury or death to a peace officer, firefighter, or emergency medical services operator during the offense. First-degree felony intoxication manslaughter can lead to punishments such as a lifetime prison sentence, and a fine of up to $10,000.
If individuals are convicted of intoxication manslaughter and are also fortunate enough to avoid a lifetime prison sentence, they may face other collateral consequences to their actions. Driver’s license suspensions, community service, ignition interlock device installation, and mandatory drug treatment program attendance are some of the many consequences of being convicted of a DWI-related offense.
Find a Plano TX Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer | Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy do not condone or support criminal activity, and we applaud the first responders who were involved in treating the crash victims, directing traffic, removing major debris, and the many other duties they faced when responding to this accident. As criminal defense attorneys, we understand law enforcement, and we are proud of the individuals who arrive swiftly when incidents like this occur.
We also understand that not every intoxication manslaughter necessarily has to result in a conviction. False accusations and misunderstandings occur more often than you think, and we are here to help Texans who are attempting to protect themselves from their criminal charges. Have you been recently arrested for intoxication manslaughter and you’re not sure of what you should do next? If so, we’re here to help.
Experienced criminal defense attorney Richard C. McConathy provides elite legal defense to individuals residing in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, and the many other surrounding areas of Collin County. Our law firm has a proven track record of providing superb legal representation to our clients, and we have built a strong reputation for reducing and dismissing charges on the behalf of the individuals who trust us with their criminal cases. If you’re unsure of what you should do about your charges and accusations, our team is here to provide you with the assistance and knowledge you need to defend your rights. Call us today at (469) 304-3422 to schedule a free consultation with our professionals.