Understanding Oklahoma's Vehicular Homicide Law

The Subjectivity of Oklahoma’s Vehicular Homicide Law

If you have been charged with vehicular homicide in Tulsa or elsewhere in Oklahoma, it is important to understand that this law can be subjective and if you have been charged you need someone to fight for your innocence. At the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm, we understand the impact that these charges can have on your life, and we are committed to providing you with the best possible defense.

The Oklahoma state statute for vehicular homicide is defined under Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 711. This statutes states that a person commits vehicular homicide when they operate a motor vehicle in a negligent manner that causes the death of another person. Negligence can be defined as a failure to exercise reasonable care that a reasonable person would have taken in similar circumstances. It is important to note that vehicular homicide is a felony offense in Oklahoma, with harsh penalties.

Here are a few examples of cases where Oklahoma’s Vehicular Homicide law has been misinterpreted or applied in a controversial manner:

1. In 2014, a woman in Oklahoma was charged with Vehicular Homicide for a crash that killed her unborn child. Despite the fact that the woman had not been drinking and was not speeding, prosecutors argued that she had been negligent by failing to wear a seatbelt. The case sparked controversy and criticism from legal experts who argued that the woman should not have been charged with a crime.
2. In 2016, an Oklahoma man was charged with Vehicular Homicide for a crash that killed his passenger. The man had reportedly been driving under the influence of marijuana, but experts testified that he was not impaired at the time of the crash. Despite this, the man was convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison.
3. In 2019, an Oklahoma woman was charged with Vehicular Homicide for a crash that killed a motorcyclist. The woman had reportedly been texting while driving, but her defense argued that she had not been distracted at the time of the crash. The case is still ongoing, but critics have argued that the woman should not be charged with a crime if she was not actually distracted at the time of the crash.

These cases demonstrate how Oklahoma’s Vehicular Homicide law can be misinterpreted or applied in a controversial manner, leading to unjust outcomes for defendants.

Consequences of a Vehicular Homicide Conviction

If convicted of vehicular homicide in Oklahoma, the penalties can include a lengthy prison sentence, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record that can have long-lasting consequences on your life. In addition to the legal consequences, a conviction can also affect your personal and professional life, causing damage to your reputation and limiting your opportunities.

At the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm, we understand the complexity of these cases and are dedicated to defending our clients to the best of our ability. We will  investigate the facts of your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense on your behalf. It is urgent that you act fast if you have been charged.

How Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm Can Help

At the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact that a vehicular homicide charge can have on your life. That’s why we are committed to providing our clients with the best possible defense, ensuring that their rights are protected, and working to achieve the best possible outcome.

In some cases, innocent people may be wrongly accused of vehicular homicide due to flawed evidence, improper police procedures, or other factors. Below are some examples that highlight the possibility of wrongful convictions in vehicular homicide cases:

1. Flawed Evidence: Vehicular homicide cases often rely on forensic evidence, such as blood alcohol level or skid marks, to determine whether the accused was driving under the influence or acting recklessly. However, this evidence can be flawed or misinterpreted, leading to wrongful convictions. According to a study by the Innocence Project, faulty forensic evidence was a contributing factor in more than half of wrongful convictions in the United States.
2. Racial Bias: Studies have shown that people of color are more likely to be wrongfully convicted of crimes, including vehicular homicide. This is often due to racial bias in the criminal justice system, which can lead to unfair treatment and false accusations.
3. Legal Technicalities: In some cases, innocent people may be convicted of vehicular homicide due to legal technicalities, such as improper jury instructions or procedural errors. These errors can violate an individual’s constitutional rights and result in wrongful convictions.

It’s important to note that while these factors can contribute to wrongful convictions in vehicular homicide cases, not every case is the same. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the evidence and circumstances of your case to determine the best course of action. If you or someone you know has been charged with vehicular homicide in Oklahoma, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Get a Initial Consultation Today

Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm’s skilled attorneys will investigate the facts of your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense on your behalf. We will also work to negotiate a plea deal or fight for a dismissal of your charges, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. If you or someone you know has been charged with vehicular homicide in Tulsa or elsewhere in Oklahoma, it’s essential to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm at 918-256-3400 today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.