An Oregon man is facing over five years in prison after a drunk driving accident that claimed the life of a 3 month-old baby.
Christopher Roman was driving on Interstate 5 near Vancouver, Washington when he lost control of his car. Roman first hit a concrete barrier, then crashed into a vehicle that was pulled over to the side of the freeway.
The adults in that car had gotten out to change a flat tire. However, they left their baby inside. The baby died at the scene of the accident.
Roman was taken to the hospital after the crash. There, his blood alcohol content registered at 0.12.
Oregon DUI Penalties
The law does not look kindly on drunk drivers who kill or injure another person.
Roman was prosecuted in Washington. There, the sentencing range for criminal homicide is 31 to 41 months. Roman pleaded guilty, and prosecutors recommended a decreased sentence. Despite this, the judge imposed the maximum sentence, plus a 24 month enhancement because of a prior DUI conviction.
In Oregon drunk driving cases, the penalties are even stiffer. Depending on the severity of the offense, a drunk driver who kills another person could face up to 20 years in prison, as well as a very hefty fine. Based on the nature of the offense and the number of prior offenses, the driver could be charged with either first or second degree manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide or aggravated vehicular homicide.
Even non-fatal DUIs are punished severely. A first offense could result in penalties as severe as 36 months of probation, 10 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. Usually, convicted drunk drivers lose their driving privileges for at least one year.
Seeking Legal Help
Obviously, Oregon DUI penalties are very severe and anyone facing DUI charges should never take them lightly-especially if another person has been killed or injured. An offender could face months-or even years-in prison, lose his or her job, financial security and independence.
Enlisting the help of an experienced Oregon DUI lawyer who can help protect your rights is advised.
