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 Rhode Island, vehicular manslaughter is addressed under the state's general laws regarding homicide by vehicle. According to Rhode Island General Laws § 31-27-1, when a death results from the operation of any vehicle by any person in a reckless manner likely to cause the death of, or injury to, another person, the operator can be charged with 'driving so as to endanger, resulting in death.' This offense is a felony and carries significant penalties, including imprisonment. If the operator is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, and this operation results in the death of another person, the offense is categorized as 'driving under the influence, death resulting,' which is also a felony with severe consequences. The specific penalties for these offenses can include substantial fines, license suspension, and mandatory imprisonment, the length of which can vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the presence of any aggravating factors.