New York Vehicular Assault in the Second Degree

New York Vehicular Assault in the Second Degree

In New York, vehicular assault in the second degree is a serious criminal offense. This charge applies when someone causes serious physical injury to another person as a result of recklessly operating a motor vehicle.

Being convicted of this felony can result in years in prison as well as other significant consequences. It’s important to understand what constitutes vehicular assault in the second degree and how a skilled New York criminal defense lawyer can defend against the charges.

What Is Vehicular Assault in the Second Degree in New York?

According to New York Penal Code 120.03, a person commits vehicular assault in the second degree when they cause serious physical injury to another person by:

• Operating a motor vehicle in a way that recklessly creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to others
• Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated or impaired by drugs and causing serious physical injury to another person

Some key points about this charge:

• It’s considered a Class D felony in New York.
• The “serious physical injury” component means things like broken bones, concussions, disfigurement, loss of body parts, etc. Minor injuries don’t qualify.
• The reckless driving doesn’t necessarily have to be intentional but demonstrates a disregard for safety and consequences.
• Intoxication includes being impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medication.

Penalties for Vehicular Assault in the Second Degree

Since vehicular assault in the second degree is a felony, the potential penalties if convicted are severe. They can include:

• Up to 7 years in state prison.
• Fines up to $5,000.
• Revocation of driver’s license.
• Probation up to 5 years.
• Mandatory ignition interlock device on vehicles.

The judge has discretion in sentencing, so the penalties can vary based on the circumstances of each case. But this is a conviction that can seriously disrupt lives and futures.

Common Defenses Against Vehicular Assault Charges

There are defenses an experienced criminal defense lawyer can use to contest vehicular assault charges. Some examples include:

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• Lack of recklessness – Argue there was no reckless conduct and it was simply an accident.
• No serious injury caused – Challenge whether the injuries meet the “serious physical injury” threshold under the law.
• Not the driver – If identity is disputed, fingerprint experts and other evidence may show you weren’t driving.
• Mechanical failure – Assert that equipment failure, not reckless driving, caused the accident.
• Weather conditions – Inclement weather like ice or fog, not reckless driving, resulted in the crash.

An experienced lawyer will carefully examine the evidence and circumstances to determine the best defense strategy for contesting the charges.

What to Do If You’re Charged with Vehicular Assault

Being arrested and charged with vehicular assault can be an extremely stressful and frightening experience. Here are some important steps to take:

1. Remain silent and avoid making any statements to the police until you have legal counsel.
2. Hire an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
3. Follow your lawyer’s instructions about providing documents and evidence related to your case.
4. Work closely with your attorney to build the strongest defense.
5. Appear at all court dates and comply with any orders until the case resolution.
6. Avoid actions that could violate bail or probation terms if imposed.

Having an aggressive defense lawyer is key, as the penalties for a conviction are so severe. Don’t leave this to chance.

Why Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer?

The consequences of a vehicular assault conviction are extremely serious. Here are some of the ways an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help:

• Conducting a thorough investigation of what happened.
• Forensically examining critical evidence.
• Identifying any illegal actions or procedural errors by police.
• Developing defense strategies to contest the charges.
• Seeking dismissal of charges if rights were violated.
• Negotiating with the prosecutor for reduced charges.
• Filing motions to exclude improperly obtained evidence.
• Presenting expert witnesses to support the defense.
• Vigorously cross-examining prosecution witnesses.
• Crafting persuasive legal arguments on your behalf.

Leveraging their experience and expertise, a skilled lawyer can often get charges reduced or avoided altogether. Don’t take chances with your future.

What About Civil Liability in Vehicular Assault Cases?

In addition to potential criminal penalties, if you are charged with vehicular assault you may also face civil liability. Even if criminal charges are dismissed, the victim can still sue you for monetary damages like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.

Some tips regarding the civil aspect:

• Consult with both a criminal defense and civil litigation attorney.
• Civil liability has a lower standard of proof than criminal charges.
• Your insurance company may cover some civil damages, but not criminal fines.
• A civil settlement does not preclude criminal prosecution.
• Your lawyer may be able to negotiate a civil settlement to resolve both matters.

Dealing with both criminal and civil consequences is complex, so having experienced legal guidance is critical.

Get Legal Help Now

If you or a loved one has been arrested for vehicular assault in the second degree in New York, don’t delay in contacting a criminal defense attorney. An experienced lawyer can advise you of your rights, build the strongest defense for your case, and try to minimize the penalties you could be facing. The sooner you have skilled legal representation on your side, the better.