Drunk driving charges are serious in South Carolina and elsewhere. Those individuals convicted of drunk driving may face harsh penalties, including jail time, fines and loss of driver's license. Drunk driving charges become even more serious when someone is injured or killed. One man is facing those penalties after allegedly driving drunk and fatally injuring another person.

The fatality happened in August when a Washington state family was on their way home from a camping trip. According to reports, the accident occurred when the family stopped on the side of the interstate to fix a flat tire. Prosecutors say the fatal accident occurred when the intoxicated man lost control of his speeding vehicle and struck the car on the side of the freeway.

The driver recently pled guilty to vehicular homicide and will be sentenced in December. The Senior Deputy Prosecutor stated that the man's plea was not a result of a plea bargain. The man faces up to five and a half years in prison.

For those individuals who are currently facing charges or are under investigation for DUI or vehicular homicide, knowing your legal rights may be necessary to ensure a strong defense in fighting the charges. While this is a tragedy for everyone involved, those accused of these types of offenses are innocent until proven guilty.

Those charged with DUI or vehicular homicide in South Carolina may wish to consult with an experienced DUI attorney. The attorney can explain the charges against a person and ensure that the rights of the accused are upheld.

Source: The Seattle Times, "Ore. man pleads guilty to vehicular homicide," Dec. 1, 2011