Rockville, Maryland Vehicular Assault Lawyers

Attorneys for Assault Charges Involving Criminal Negligence While Operating a Vehicle in Rockville

There are many situations where a person could be charged with assault, including when they are accused of using a motor vehicle to injure someone. Vehicular assault is a serious offense in Maryland, and it may be related to charges of reckless driving, driving under the influence, or other situations that led to car accidents. When facing charges of vehicular assault, it is crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side. At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, our lawyers can provide the defense you need in these situations. We will help you throughout the legal process, working to protect your rights and safeguard your future.

What Is Vehicular Assault in Maryland?

Vehicular assault occurs when a driver engages in "criminal negligence" that causes someone else to suffer serious bodily harm. Criminal negligence goes beyond carelessness, and it involves behavior that shows that a person has acted recklessly and ignored the safety of others. In general, this means that a person should have known that their actions would be likely to cause harm to others, but they did not act reasonably in the way that others would typically behave in the same situation.

Vehicular assault is a misdemeanor offense. A conviction could lead to a prison sentence of up to one year, as well as up to $5,000 in fines.

Examples of Criminal Negligence That Could Lead to Vehicular Assault Charges

• Driving While Distracted: Texting or using a mobile device while operating a vehicle may lead to an accident that injures someone.
• Driving While Fatigued: If a person continued to drive while they were tired or drowsy, they could fall asleep at the wheel and cause a collision.
• Ignoring Traffic Laws: Violations such as running red lights, failing to yield, or driving the wrong way on a one-way street may lead to dangerous accidents and injuries.
• DUI: Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is likely to be considered criminally negligent behavior.

Defense Strategies Against Vehicular Assault Charges

At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, we understand the serious nature of vehicular assault charges. We can help build a strong defense to avoid a conviction or minimize penalties. As we work with you, we will explain the legal issues that may affect your case, and we will make sure you will be ready to appear in court and defend yourself. We will explain what questions you may be asked and what procedures will be followed. By helping you understand what will happen, you can be ready to answer questions appropriately. We will also help you present the best possible appearance to the court by making sure you are dressed professionally and providing you with a tie to wear if you need one.

The defense strategies we may use during your case may include:

• Challenging the Evidence: We will look at the evidence presented by the prosecution, such as accident reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. By reviewing the details surrounding an accident or injury, we can question whether the evidence shows that you were criminally negligent.
• Disputing Criminal Negligence: We may argue that the incident was a tragic accident rather than the result of negligence or reckless behavior. We will work to show that you acted the same as another reasonable driver would. These arguments may weaken the prosecution's case and allow for reduced charges or a dismissal.
• Questioning the Causes of the Accident: The prosecution must prove that your actions directly caused someone's injury. We can look at whether other factors were involved, such as the breakdown of a vehicle, dangerous road conditions, or the actions of other drivers. By creating doubt about the causes of the accident, we may be able to show that you were not at fault.
• Negotiating Reduced Charges: In some cases, we may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a vehicular assault charge to a lesser offense that has lighter penalties. However, we will not accept anything other than the best possible outcome for you. If prosecutors are unwilling to negotiate, we will be ready to take your case to trial and argue for an acquittal.

Contact Our Rockville, MD Vehicular Assault Defense Attorneys

With the help of the right lawyer, you can defend against vehicular assault charges and protect your future. The Law Offices of Mallon Snyder can provide the compassionate legal support you need in this situation. Contact our office at 301-762-7500 to schedule a free consultation. We can provide legal help and representation throughout most counties in Maryland and in Washington, D.C.