If you’ve been involved in a serious accident, the type of charge you face can depend heavily on the outcome for others. Today, we’re taking a closer look at how Washington law distinguishes between vehicular assault and vehicular homicide—and why the stakes are so high.
Vehicular Assault
Vehicular assault is charged when someone suffers substantial bodily harm due to a crash caused by impaired, reckless, or negligent driving. It is a Class B felony under Washington law and carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
“Substantial bodily harm” can include broken bones, internal injuries, or anything requiring significant medical care.
Vehicular Homicide
Vehicular homicide is the more serious charge and applies when a person dies as a result of the crash. It is a Class A felony, the most severe category in Washington’s legal system.
Even for first-time offenders, a conviction can mean years in prison. If alcohol or drugs were involved, mandatory sentencing guidelines apply, often starting at around 6 to 8 years.
How Prosecutors Build the Case
In both vehicular assault and vehicular homicide cases, the prosecution must prove more than just the occurrence of a crash. They must show that your actions directly caused the injury or death and that those actions met the legal standard for recklessness, disregard for others’ safety, or driving under the influence.
To do this, prosecutors rely on several types of evidence. Crash reconstruction experts may analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions to determine how the collision occurred and whether it was avoidable.
Toxicology reports play a major role in DUI-related charges, especially if drugs or alcohol were involved. If a blood or breath test indicates impairment, that alone can be used to support an allegation of recklessness.
Witness testimony, including passengers, bystanders, or the other driver, can also influence the case. Prosecutors often use these accounts to frame your behavior leading up to the crash, such as excessive speeding, running a red light, or ignoring road signs. Surveillance footage, dash cam videos, and cell phone records may also be introduced to support their version of events.
Ultimately, their goal is to show a clear and direct connection between your conduct and the resulting harm. If that link is established, you could face serious penalties—even if you had no intent to hurt anyone.
Why Legal Representation Is Essential
The penalties for both charges are life-altering. Aside from prison, you could face long-term license revocation, steep fines, and a permanent felony record. That record can follow you for years, making it more difficult to secure employment, qualify for housing, or obtain professional licenses.
Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony conviction involving injury or death can be particularly damaging. Your driver’s license may be revoked for years, which could affect your ability to work, care for your family, or maintain basic independence.
These outcomes go far beyond the courtroom and can permanently alter the direction of your life. These are not charges you should face without experienced counsel.
Don’t face serious felony charges alone. Contact Scott Lawrence of the Snohomish Law Group today to begin building your defense. Visit our contact page.
