PC 191.5 Bail Bonds — Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
One of the most serious DUI-related charges in California. Chad Conley posts bail 24/7 and works with families navigating the most difficult situations.
What Is Penal Code 191.5?
PC 191.5 covers vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated — causing the death of another person while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. PC 191.5(a) is gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated (driving with gross negligence), a felony carrying up to 10 years in state prison. PC 191.5(b) is ordinary vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated (without gross negligence), a wobbler. This charge is distinct from Watson murder (PC 187 second-degree murder charged after a DUI death when the defendant had prior DUI convictions), which carries even higher bail and a potential life sentence.
Elements of the Charge
- You drove a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- While driving, you committed an unlawful act or acted with negligence
- That act or negligence caused the death of another person
- Gross negligence (PC 191.5(a)) carries higher penalties than ordinary negligence (PC 191.5(b))
Typical Bail Amounts for PC 191.5
| Charge / Scenario | Typical Bail |
|---|---|
| PC 191.5(b) — ordinary negligence (wobbler) | $100,000 |
| PC 191.5(a) — gross vehicular manslaughter | $250,000–$500,000 |
| Multiple victims | $500,000–$1,000,000 |
| Prior DUI convictions (Watson murder risk) | $1,000,000+ |
Bail is set by county schedule and can be modified at arraignment. Prior DUI convictions dramatically increase bail and may result in a Watson murder charge (PC 187).
A bail bond costs 10% of the total bail. On a $100,000 bail, your cost is $10,000. Chad offers payment plans and works with families on larger bail amounts.
What the Family Needs to Know
PC 191.5 cases are among the most emotionally and legally complex situations a family can face. Getting your loved one out before arraignment — even on high bail — gives them time to work with a defense attorney to assess the evidence, challenge the intoxication element, and understand whether Watson murder charges are a risk. Chad has helped families through these situations and will work with you on the financial side.
Cosigning a PC 191.5 Bond
Vehicular manslaughter bail is high. Here's what cosigning means:
What Cosigning Means
- You guarantee the defendant appears at every court date — these cases have multiple hearings
- If they fail to appear, you are responsible for the full bail amount
- Collateral — real estate, vehicles, or other assets — is typically required on high bail amounts
- The 10% premium is non-refundable once the defendant is released
Why Families Choose Chad Conley
24/7 Availability
Chad answers his phone nights, weekends, and holidays — no voicemail, no call center.
Four-County Coverage
Chad posts bail in LA, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties.
High-Bail Experience
Chad works with families on collateral and payment plans for high bail amounts.
Compassionate and Discreet
These cases are devastating for everyone involved. Chad handles them with care and without judgment.
What Happens at Arraignment
At arraignment, the judge reviews the charges and bail. For PC 191.5, the DA may argue for no bail or very high bail. The defense will present arguments for release. Being out before arraignment gives the defendant and their attorney the best position to prepare for this critical hearing.
Call Chad Now — 855-BAD-CHADNot legal advice. The information on this page is based on Chad Conley's 15+ years as a licensed bail bondsman, plus additional experience as an investigator and bounty hunter, and is intended to help families understand the general process. It is not legal advice, and Chad Conley is not an attorney. Every case is different. If you have legal questions about your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney.