Hollywood celebrities are constantly in the public eye, so it is no surprise that significant media attention has centered on Caitlyn (formerly Bruce) Jenner’s involvement in a multi-car accident earlier this year that left one person dead and others injured. The accident occurred on February 7, 2015, along California’s Pacific Coast Highway. Jenner, who was towing an off-road vehicle behind her SUV, rear-ended another car, pushing it into oncoming traffic. The driver of that vehicle was struck head-on by a passing vehicle and died on the scene.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department investigators determined that drugs, alcohol, and distracted driving were not an influence in the crash. Accident investigators did state, however, that unsafe driving given the conditions on the road at the time was a contributing factor. This and other evidence has been presented to the District Attorney, who is considering whether manslaughter charges should be brought against Jenner.
Michael T. van der Veen, founder of van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim and recognized across Pennsylvania for high-profile criminal defense wins, explains that Jenner could face prison time if convicted of involuntary manslaughter. If the incident had occurred in Pennsylvania, according to van der Veen, the charge would be a first-degree misdemeanor and could carry up to five years imprisonment. Attorney van der Veen emphasizes the importance of having staunch representation, especially in high-stakes, high-profile criminal cases. He won dismissal of all charges in his last involuntary manslaughter case for a young man charged after a pedestrian was struck and killed during an alleged drag racing event on Route 1.
Regardless of whether criminal charges are brought against Jenner, she is facing substantial civil lawsuits from others involved in the crash, including a wrongful death lawsuit brought by the estate of the woman who was fatally injured in the crash. Jenner could face significant litigation in the future, explains van der Veen, and—without aggressive legal counsel—may stand to lose millions upon millions of dollars.
If you or someone you know is facing a criminal charge or civil lawsuit, maximize your chance for success by enlisting the best legal help available. Michael T. van der Veen is Pennsylvania’s foremost civil and criminal defense attorney, with unprecedented multimillion-dollar civil litigation wins for clients throughout the state and historic criminal defense verdicts. He and his elite team of skilled attorneys do everything it takes to reach favorable outcomes for clients, starting with coming to you for a free initial consultation if you are unable to visit the firm’s downtown office. Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim online or by calling (215) 486-0123.