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In Ohio, driving under the influence (DUI) is referred to as operating a vehicle impaired (OVI). As with DUIs, multiple OVI convictions can have a devastating impact on your driving record, as well as many life-altering effects. To understand the consequences, and how an attorney can help, consult the following guide about Ohio OVI convictions. 

A Guide to OVIs In Ohio

OVI Qualifiers

In Ohio, anyone pulled over for a traffic stop while operating motorized or nonmotorized vehicles, such as cars, bicycles, or horse-drawn carriages, can be charged with an OVI. The driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) must be .08% or higher, or they must have a urine alcohol concentration of at least .110 percent. A person can also be charged for having illicit drugs in their system or a combination of both drugs and alcohol. 

Elyria, Ohio attorneyIf you’ve been pulled over, answer the police officer’s questions but don’t offer any incriminating details, such as how much alcohol you’ve consumed. You are not obligated to perform a field sobriety test but are expected to adhere to a blood alcohol concentration test under Ohio’s implied consent laws. Failure to do so could result in license suspension. During legal proceedings, a prosecutor will also take into account the past history of OVI convictions of people who didn’t submit to chemical tests. 

Consequences of Two or More OVIs

Because operating a vehicle while impaired puts everyone on the road in danger, the penalties are steep for first-time offenders. A conviction could result in a one- to three-year license suspension, plus three days to six months in jail. A first offense also comes with a fine of no more than $1,075 and no less than $375.

The penalties become more severe for multiple OVI convictions. Second-time offenders could face anywhere from 10 days to six months in jail and may be fined up to $1,625. Their license could also be suspended for one to seven years.

A third conviction could result in a license suspension of two to 12 years. With a third strike, the defendant could spend at least a month and up to a year in jail, paying between $850 to $2,750 in fines. An attorney can go over the circumstances of your case and work to get the fine, jail time, or license suspension reduced.

 

If you are facing an OVI conviction in Ohio, contact Michael D. Doyle, Attorney At Law, in Elyria. With over 25 years of experience in criminal law, this attorney handles the defense of clients charged with OVIs throughout Lorain and Cuyahoga counties. The attorney will also seek compensation if you suffer a personal injury in an auto accident. Visit this OVI attorney online, or call (440) 323-0001 for a free initial consultation.

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