What Constitutes Vehicular Assault in Texas? 

 Posted on January 03,2024 in Violent Crimes

Vehicular assault is a serious offense that occurs when a person uses a vehicle as a weapon to cause harm to someone else. In Texas, the laws surrounding vehicular assault are strict and precise, aiming to protect public safety and hold individuals accountable for their actions. If you are facing charges related to vehicular assault, contact a lawyer right away. Your serious charges must be countered with an aggressive and robust legal defense.

Legal Definitions of Vehicular Assault in Texas

In Texas, vehicular assault is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing serious bodily injury to another person by operating a motor vehicle. Serious bodily injury refers to injuries that create a substantial risk of death, cause permanent disfigurement, or result in the loss or impairment of a bodily function or organ. It is important to note that the intent to cause harm is not required for a charge of vehicular assault; the act of operating a vehicle recklessly or negligently that results in serious bodily injury is sufficient to warrant prosecution.

Penalties for Vehicular Assault 

The consequences and penalties for vehicular assault can and often are very severe. The offense is usually considered a third-degree felony, which can land the accused in prison for two to ten years and levy a fine of $10,000. If the offense involves driving while intoxicated (DWI), it can be elevated to a second-degree felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of two to 20 years and a fine of $10,000.

In addition to criminal penalties, individuals convicted of vehicular assault may face civil liability, including financial compensation for the victim’s medical costs, pain and suffering, and more. The court may also impose additional penalties, such as license suspension or mandatory participation in alcohol or drug rehab programs.

Work With a Lawyer to Fight These Charges

Facing serious charges like these means it is imperative to hire legal counsel. Your lawyer will assess the specific circumstances of your case, including challenging evidence, questioning why you were stopped in the first place, and more. It is very difficult to articulate these types of arguments while juggling the legal jargon involved in criminal cases. By hiring an attorney, you can take a step back and let your lawyer handle the situation.

Contact a Houston, TX Vehicular Assault Defense Attorney

Look no further than the skilled Texas criminal defense lawyer with Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. for forthright legal guidance. Call 713-229-8333 for a free consultation.