What is the legal term for unintentionally killing someone with a vehicle?

The legal term for unintentionally killing someone with a vehicle is commonly referred to as homicide by vehicle. This designation emphasizes that the act of causing death was not intentional, distinguishing it from other forms of homicide that might involve intent or premeditation.

In many jurisdictions, homicide by vehicle typically encompasses situations where a driver is acting recklessly or negligently, rather than with the intention to kill. This aligns with legal standards that seek to address the responsibility of drivers in tragic accidents that result in loss of life, recognizing the serious consequences of operating a vehicle without proper care or attention.

Understanding this term is crucial because it holds drivers accountable for their actions while also acknowledging that not all fatal accidents arise from a malicious intent. With other legal terms like negligent homicide and involuntary manslaughter, the context may vary based on the driver’s behavior and state laws. Nonetheless, "homicide by vehicle" specifically captures the essence of the act in question—fatal incidents involving a vehicle where intent to kill is absent.