A DUI manslaughter charge is one of the most serious offenses someone can face after a fatal car accident involving alcohol or drugs. However, not every case is as clear-cut as it may seem. One issue that can complicate the situation is whether a vehicle defect played a role in the crash. In some situations, this factor could impact the charges or how the case is resolved.
How Vehicle Defects Factor Into DUI Cases
If someone is involved in a fatal crash and later charged with DUI manslaughter, prosecutors will need to show that impairment contributed to the death. But if the vehicle had a mechanical failure that caused or contributed to the collision, this could affect how the case is viewed. For example, if the brakes failed, the steering locked, or the airbags did not deploy properly, those problems could shift part of the blame away from the driver.
It does not mean that the DUI charge automatically goes away, but it could help raise doubts about the cause of death or the extent of responsibility. Judges and juries are required to weigh all the facts. If the vehicle issue had a meaningful impact on the crash, that could make a difference in sentencing or lead to reduced charges in some cases.
Common Defects That May Come Up
Some of the most common mechanical issues that have shown up in DUI-related cases include faulty brakes, tire blowouts, steering system failures, and electrical malfunctions. In newer vehicles, computer glitches or sensor failures can also lead to sudden loss of control. These issues may not be obvious at the time of arrest, which is why a full inspection of the vehicle is often necessary.
If a defense attorney suspects a defect, they may bring in an independent mechanic or engineer to assess the car. If the results show that a malfunction could have caused or worsened the crash, that becomes a key part of the defense. Attorneys like those at Stechschulte Nell can attest that these findings have the potential to shift the narrative of the case.
The Importance Of A Thorough Investigation
Police investigations often focus on alcohol tests, field sobriety results, and witness statements. They may not always look closely at the car unless there is an obvious defect. This is why it is important for anyone facing a DUI manslaughter charge to work with legal counsel who will dig deeper. A detailed investigation can uncover whether the vehicle had an open recall, missed maintenance, or previously reported problems.
Finding a defect does not mean someone is entirely off the hook, but it could support arguments that the crash would have occurred regardless of impairment or that the outcome might have been different. These arguments can influence the type of plea deal offered or the result at trial.
What Defendants Should Do
Anyone charged with DUI manslaughter should speak with a lawyer right away. If there is any reason to believe the vehicle was not working properly at the time of the crash, that information needs to be preserved quickly. Waiting too long may result in loss of evidence or missed opportunities to get the car examined.
A DUI manslaughter lawyer will know how to request access to the vehicle, seek out experts, and raise these issues with the court. While a vehicle defect will not erase the emotional and legal weight of a fatal crash, it can lead to a more fair outcome if it played a role in the accident.