Vehicular manslaughter is a criminal offense defined as the unintentional killing (homicide) of another person as a result of criminal negligence or recklessness while operating a motor vehicle—often while the operator is intoxicated by alcohol or drugs, engaged in a high risk activity such as street racing, or committing a misdemeanor or infraction offense (speeding) with ordinary negligence.
Vehicular manslaughter is usually a felony offense and often includes significant jail or prison time as potential punishment. Vehicular manslaughter laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In Colorado, vehicular manslaughter is referred to as 'Vehicular Homicide' and is codified under Colorado Revised Statutes 18-3-106. This offense occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle in a reckless manner or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and this conduct results in the death of another person. Vehicular homicide can be charged as a class 3 or class 4 felony, depending on the circumstances. If the death results from operating the vehicle in a reckless manner, it is a class 4 felony. However, if the death occurs as a result of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it is a class 3 felony, which is more serious and carries harsher penalties. Penalties for vehicular homicide in Colorado can include significant prison time, fines, and the revocation of driving privileges.