California DUI Driver Faces Sentencing in Crash

California DUI Driver Faces Sentencing in Crash

A 19 year-old driver, T. T. B., who killed another man in a DUI incident in the San Diego area last May 16 faces sentencing today in court. The driver pleaded guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated as well as DUI causing injury. The victim, a 22 year-old man, died at the scene after being involved in a collision with the driver. After a chemical test, T. T. B.'s blood revealed the presence of marijuana, Xanax, and inhalants. Several witnesses saw him driving erratically, one of whom called 911.

While most people associate DUI charges with drinking alcohol, ingesting street drugs, prescription drugs, and even over-the-counter drugs can lead to a DUI arrest. Blood tests are performed in cases where a driver is suspected of driving while under the influence of any type of drug.

Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is defined under California Penal Code 191.5(a) which describes this felony as driving while under the influence and committing an additional violation such as speeding or breaking a traffic law which causes the death of another person. It carries a penalty of up to 10 years in a state prison on a first offense and 15 years to life in prison if the offender has previous DUI convictions.

Criminal Defense Firm in Long Beach, California

Getting behind the wheel when impaired by alcohol and / or drugs is never a good idea and can lead to tragic consequences, as in the case above where two young men's lives were changed forever. While most drivers are responsible, a mistake on this issue can be costly in terms of finances, freedom, and future. In some cases, too, drivers facing DUI charges may have had their rights violated by overzealous police officers anxious to make arrests.

Regardless of the circumstances, anyone charged with DUI has the right to their day in court and a good defense. That can be accomplished only with the help of an experienced DUI defense attorney. Law Office of Peacock & Le Beau is a criminal defense firm based in Long Beach and serving clients throughout the greater Los Angeles area. These attorneys have both been named Super Lawyers. They are also both California State Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialists, which is the highest professional status attainable. They are well-equipped to handle your DUI case or any other criminal charges, from drug crimes to theft crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, and more. Get expert legal advice and representation by contacting the firm about your case today.