Driving is a privilege that many people don’t realize can be revoked if you fail to follow specific laws. There are many ways you can get your license suspended in Ohio. If you happen to fall into one of these categories, an attorney will be able to offer you sound advice and ensure that you can get your license reinstated. Here are five of the main reasons Ohio residents might have their driver’s licenses suspended.

What Qualifies for Driver’s License Suspension in Ohio?

1. Accumulating More than 12 Points in Two Years

Ohio operates on a points system in which drivers are assigned points for different offenses. These points usually accrue due to moving violations, including speeding, DUI, fleeing, and reckless operation.

The points you receive will stay on your record for two years. If you receive 12 or more points within those two years, your driver’s license will be suspended.

2. Failure to Pay Child Support

If you fail to pay child support, your local CSEA can instruct the BMV to suspend your license. This usually occurs when you pay half or less of the child support you owe for 90-day consecutive days. According to the Ohio BMV, your license may remain suspended until all delinquent child support payments are made.

3. DUI Convictions

A DUI, also called an OVI, indicates that you were operating a vehicle while impaired, usually under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

If you’re charged with an OVI, the first thing you should do is contact an attorney. If you are convicted, it can result in a driver’s license suspension, fines, and potentially, a drug or alcohol treatment program. The repercussions for subsequent OVIs increase in severity.

4.Conviction of Reckless Operation

In Ohio, reckless operation means driving without regard for the safety of others. Often, this could be driving down a one-way street, driving on the sidewalk, or excessive speeding. This not only adds points to your license but can also result in a driver’s license suspension of six months or more.

5. Failure to Maintain Insurance

The state of Ohio requires that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance of $25,000 per person in bodily injury, $50,000 per accident in bodily injury, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. If you’re caught driving without the minimum required insurance it can result in a license suspension of up to two years.

If you’ve recently been charged with an OVI, contact the attorneys at Pater, Pater & Halverson in Hamilton, OH. They have more than 90 years of combined experience and can offer expert counsel for your specific situation. They offer payment plans, and out of office visits are available. Visit their website for more information or call them at (513) 867-1411 today to schedule a consultation.