A man was taken into custody in Stanislaus County after reportedly killing three women in a car crash due to driving while intoxicated. California authorities say the man currently faces charges of felony manslaughter (three counts) and DUI causing injury (three counts). The man entered not guilty pleas to the charges. 

Events leading up to the accident 

The California accident occurred on recent Thursday. According to police, a man was driving his car east along a road. His female co-worker, 44, was riding in the car with him. Meanwhile, a 67-year-old woman was driving a car west. Her 64-year-old sister was riding with her. 

Police said the man drifted toward the road’s right shoulder and veered toward the left before entering the second car’s path. His female passenger and the two women in the second car died in the motor vehicle wreck. The man, who suffered minor injuries, was arrested and jailed, with a $600,000 bail set for him. 

How an attorney can help 

The man charged with DUI and felony manslaughter in connection with the fatal California car crash may go to trial to fight the charges. Prosecutors must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt before a judge will hand down convictions against him. This high standard exists in an effort to prevent innocent individuals from being convicted of crimes they did not commit. The man may alternatively seek to strike a plea agreement with the prosecution, which might lead to lesser charges and a lighter sentence than what may be imposed following a guilty finding at trial. An attorney can help the man choose the most personally favorable option in light of the circumstances.