Erie, PA Traffic Crime Defense Attorney

Traffic Violations & Vehicular Crimes in Erie County, Pennsylvania

Traffic offenses can range from minor speeding tickets to serious vehicular crimes with long-term consequences. At MP2 Placidi & Parini, our experienced Erie traffic defense attorneys provide aggressive, knowledgeable representation for all traffic-related charges. We work to protect your driving privileges, freedom, and future.

Reckless Driving & Speeding Tickets

Even seemingly minor traffic violations like reckless driving or speeding tickets can have serious consequences in Pennsylvania:

• Points on your driving record
• Fines and court costs
• Increased insurance premiums
• License suspension (for repeat offenders)

How We Help

• Challenge the accuracy of speeding devices like radar and pacing
• Negotiate for reduced charges or fines
• Prevent license points from impacting insurance or employment

Vehicular Homicide & Vehicular Assault

Vehicular crimes are the most serious traffic offenses in Pennsylvania. Vehicular homicide or vehicular assault charges can result from accidents that cause serious injury or death. Penalties can include:

• Felony charges with lengthy prison sentences
• Heavy fines
• Permanent criminal record
• Loss of driving privileges

Homicide by Vehicle

Homicide by vehicle occurs when a person recklessly or with gross negligence causes the death of another individual while violating Pennsylvania traffic laws or municipal vehicle ordinances—excluding DUI offenses. This is classified as a third-degree felony.

Sentencing Enhancements

• Active Work Zone: If the death occurs in an active work zone, the offender may face an additional sentence of up to 5 years.
• Related Traffic Violations: If the offender is also convicted of certain traffic offenses—such as driving without a license, driving while suspended, texting while driving, or failing to yield to emergency vehicles—an additional 5-year sentence may apply.

Key Points

• The statute focuses on deaths caused by reckless or grossly negligent driving, separate from DUI-related offenses.
• The law allows for both standard felony penalties and additional enhancements for aggravating circumstances, particularly in work zones or in conjunction with other traffic violations.

Homicide by Vehicle while DUI

Homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence occurs when a person unintentionally causes the death of another as a result of violating section 3802 (DUI). This offense carries serious felony penalties and includes enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders.

Felony Classification

• Second-Degree Felony: For a first-time violation resulting in death.
• First-Degree Felony: If the offender has prior DUI-related convictions, adjudications of delinquency, ARD participation, or substantially similar offenses in another jurisdiction.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

• First-Time Offender (Second-Degree Felony): Minimum of 3 years, with a consecutive 3-year term for each victim.
• Prior Offender (First-Degree Felony):
  • One prior offense: Minimum 5 years, consecutive for each victim.
  • Two or more prior offenses: Minimum 7 years, consecutive for each victim.

Key Points

• The law focuses on unintentional deaths caused by DUI, distinguishing it from other forms of homicide by vehicle.
• Penalties escalate significantly for repeat DUI offenders and multiple victims.
• Sentences include mandatory minimums and consecutive terms per victim.

Aggravated Assault by Vehicle 

Aggravated assault by vehicle occurs when a person recklessly or with gross negligence causes serious bodily injury to another while violating traffic laws or municipal vehicle ordinances—excluding DUI offenses. This is classified as a third-degree felony.

Sentencing Enhancements

• Work Zone: An additional sentence of up to 2 years may be imposed if the offense occurred in an active work zone.
• Related Traffic Violations: If the offender is also convicted of certain traffic-related offenses—such as driving without a license, driving while suspended, texting while driving, or failing to yield to emergency vehicles—an additional 2-year sentence may apply.

Key Points

• Serious bodily injury caused by reckless or grossly negligent driving qualifies.
• The law allows for both standard penalties and additional enhancements for aggravating circumstances.

Aggravated Assault by Vehicle while DUI 

Aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI occurs when a person negligently causes serious bodily injury to another as a result of violating section 3802 (DUI). This offense is treated as a serious felony under Pennsylvania law and carries significant sentencing consequences.

Felony Classification

• Second-Degree Felony: For any negligent act resulting in serious bodily injury caused while committing a DUI offense.

Enhanced Sentencing

• If the offender is also convicted of violating section 1501 (drivers required to be licensed) or section 1543 (driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked) at the same time and place, the court may impose an additional sentence of up to 2 years’ confinement.

Key Points

• The law addresses injuries caused by DUI, emphasizing negligence resulting in serious bodily harm.
• Enhanced penalties apply for concurrent violations related to licensing or driving privileges.
• Penalties are in addition to other sentencing provisions, making this a serious offense that can significantly increase total prison exposure.

These cases require thorough investigation and strategic defense strategies. At MP2 Placidi & Parini, we:

• Review police reports, accident reconstruction evidence, and witness statements
• Consult with accident reconstruction and forensic experts when necessary
• Develop strong legal strategies to reduce charges or penalties
• Represent clients at trial, sentencing, and appeals

Why Choose MP2 Placidi & Parini for Traffic Defense

• Decades of combined courtroom experience in traffic and criminal law
• Former prosecutor on staff for insight into prosecutorial strategies
• Success in trials, negotiations, and license-related hearings
• Personalized defense plans tailored to each client and case

Protect Your Driving Privileges and Future

Whether facing a reckless driving charge, speeding ticket, or vehicular crime, the consequences can affect your freedom, livelihood, and reputation. Don’t risk handling it alone. Call MP2 Placidi & Parini today for a free consultation and speak with an experienced Erie traffic defense lawyer.