Fatal DUI Accident in Irvine Leads to Criminal Charges

A 16 year-old Irvine high school student who would have been starting her junior year died in a DUI-related accident yesterday. The girl, M. E. J., died when she was ejected from the car that was going 70 miles per hour in Silverado Canyon. Three others in the car, including the driver, were injured and hospitalized. The dead girl was not wearing seatbelt. Apparently, the driver lost control of his Honda Civic as it traveled through the canyon, which led to a rollover and wreck. The driver of the car, a 19 year-old, had been drinking prior to the accident, according to California Highway Patrol officers at the scene. The driver will be charged with felony DUI and felony vehicular manslaughter.

In cases where a DUI results in the injury or death of another, it is charged as a felony in California under the state's vehicle code. A conviction of this crime carries heavy penalties, including a state prison term, hefty fines, and loss of driving privileges for several years. Vehicular manslaughter may involve cases involving alcohol or drugs or cases where these substances were not a factor. Penal Code 191.5(b) describes vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated which may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Penal Code 191.5(a) describes gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated which is charged as a felony which carries a prison sentence of four, six, or ten years, depending on the facts of the case.

DUI Defense Lawyer in Pasadena, California

Driving while under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs is a serious legal matter which calls for the professional services of an experienced defense lawyer. These crimes carry serious penalties ranging from heavy fines to jail time, probation, and other court-ordered actions. Those who have been arrested for DUI are often first-time offenders who have little experience with the criminal justice system and who need the legal advice and guidance of a reputable law firm.

The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal is a criminal defense firm located in Pasadena which provides competent legal representation for those facing criminal charges of all kinds. At this firm, you will have the benefit of Mr. Cargal's more than 20 years of legal experience. Whether you are facing a first-offense DUI, a subsequent DUI, a felony DUI, or any other criminal charge, you can get the diligent legal help you need which will greatly enhance your chances for a positive case result. The firm offers legal representation in both state and federal crimes. Contact the law offices for a free case consultation to learn your legal options as soon as possible.