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 Michigan, vehicular manslaughter, also known as 'moving violation causing death,' is addressed under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 257.601d. This offense occurs when a person, operating a motor vehicle in a negligent manner or in violation of a traffic law, causes the death of another person. It is considered a criminal felony. The penalties for this crime can include fines, driver's license sanctions, and imprisonment. If the driver is found to have been operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the charges can be more severe, potentially leading to charges of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) Causing Death under Section 257.625(4). This carries stiffer penalties, including longer prison sentences and larger fines. The specific circumstances of the incident, such as prior convictions or the level of negligence, can influence the severity of the punishment.