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 Maryland, vehicular manslaughter is addressed under Maryland Transportation Code, Title 2 - Vehicle Laws - Administration, Registration, and Title; Subtitle 2 - Department of State Police; Part 1 - Definitions; Section 2-209. It is considered a serious criminal offense that involves the unintentional killing of another person due to driving a vehicle in a criminally negligent or reckless manner. This can include situations where the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, engaging in dangerous driving behaviors such as street racing, or committing traffic offenses like speeding with negligence. Vehicular manslaughter in Maryland can be charged as either 'gross negligence' or 'criminal negligence,' with the former being more severe and carrying heavier penalties. Gross negligence vehicular manslaughter is a felony that can result in significant prison time, fines, and the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. Criminal negligence vehicular manslaughter is also a serious charge, but with potentially less severe consequences than gross negligence. The specific penalties for vehicular manslaughter convictions in Maryland depend on the circumstances of the case and the driver's criminal history.