As reported by Paul Grimaldi in the October 20, 2014 edition of the Providence Journal, a Portsmouth woman has been arrested and charged with driving to endanger – death resulting and reckless driving. She was arrested following a motor vehicle accident which killed a pedestrian. The incident is still be investigated.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 31-27-1, when the death of any person ensues as a proximate result of an injury received by the operation of any vehicle in reckless disregard of the safety of others, including violations of § 31-27-22, the person so operating the vehicle shall be guilty of "driving so as to endanger, resulting in death".
(b) Any person charged with the commission of this offense shall upon conviction be imprisoned for not more than ten (10) years and have his or her license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for no more than five (5) years.
Driving to endanger – death resulting is a felony charge whereas reckless driving is a misdemeanor charge. Pursuant to R.I.G.L. 31-27-4, any person who operates a motor vehicle recklessly so that the lives or safety of the public might be endangered, or operates a vehicle in an attempt to elude or flee from a traffic officer or police vehicle, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor for the first conviction and a felony for the second and each subsequent conviction.
If you or a family member has been charged with driving to endanger, reckless driving or other driving offenses, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.