December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a perfect time to remind drivers of the dangers of operating a vehicle under the influence. Any DUI lawyer will attest that a drunk driving charge can have serious repercussions on a motorist's life and future. But the first step to effectively managing a DUI or DWI is to understand your rights and responsibilities under the law. Ohio, like all states, has its own rules and legal parameters surrounding drunk driving charges. To help you be an informed and empowered part of your case, below are answers to frequently asked questions about DUI/DWI in Ohio.

Answers to Common Questions About Ohio DUI/DWI Laws

What Is an OVI?

OVI is the term the state of Ohio uses for DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or DUI (Driving under the Influence) charges. While these terms all mean the same thing, the charges will be referred to as OVI in almost all Ohio legal settings and documentation. It is an acronym for Operating a Vehicle under the Influence.

What Are the Blood Alcohol Limits for an OVI?

In Ohio, blood alcohol content (BAC) for drivers 21 and older cannot exceed .08 percent. For those operating commercial vehicles, that limit drops to .04 percent. If you're under the age of 21, the ceiling is lowered even further to .02 percent.

What Are the Penalties for a First Offense?

A first-time OVI conviction can result in anywhere from 3 days to six months in jail, a $250 to $1000 fine, and/or six months to 3 years behind bars. These penalties get considerably steeper with repeated offenses. Given the severity of the potential punishments, many suspects hire a DUI lawyer to help them navigate the legal process and either fight the charges or plea bargain for a lesser penalty.

How Many Drinks Is Too Many?

There is no clear-cut answer to this, mainly because everyone's body is different. A number of factors contribute to how one processes alcohol, including weight, body fat index, gender, and the length of time over which the alcohol is consumed. It's always best to err on the side of caution, and if you know you will be drinking, never get behind the wheel. Have a designated driver or download a rideshare app to your phone to easily arrange a ride when you've had too much.

In addition to National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, December is also the time of the year when holiday parties and festivities will be taking place. Celebrate responsibly, and if the need should arise, trust the DUI lawyers at Lane, Felix & Raisbeck CO, LPA, to look out for you. For more than 30 years, they have been representing clients throughout Hamilton County in a variety of legal matters, including OVI charges, family law issues, and criminal defense cases. Call (513) 922-7700 or visit their website to arrange a consultation with a DUI lawyer.