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 Wyoming, vehicular manslaughter is addressed under the state's criminal laws. Specifically, Wyoming Statutes Title 6, Crimes and Offenses, includes provisions for homicide by vehicle, which is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being by the operation of a motor vehicle in a reckless or grossly negligent manner. This offense is typically classified as a felony, and the penalties can be severe, including imprisonment. The exact classification and penalties depend on the circumstances of the offense, such as the level of negligence and whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Wyoming law also considers aggravating factors, such as previous convictions or the presence of certain high-risk behaviors like street racing. It is important for individuals charged with vehicular manslaughter in Wyoming to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney to navigate the complexities of the state's legal system and to understand the potential consequences of the charge.