Driving under the influence (DUI) is the act of operating a motor vehicle with blood levels of alcohol in excess of a specified limit. In Ohio, a DUI arrest is referred to either as an Ohio Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated or Impaired (OVI) arrest, or as an Operating a Motor Vehicle while Intoxicated or Impaired (OMVI).
Many people are guilty of drunk driving. An Ohio OVI arrest can spark based on one of two theories. You can be arrested if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at .08% or higher, or if the arresting officer feels that you are driving impaired, no matter what your BAC may be.
OVI Arrests in Ohio
Your OVI arrest in Ohio can trigger two separate cases. First, you have to face the criminal courts to determine the severity of your penalties due to driving while intoxicated. Also, you have to face an administrative hearing with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. This hearing will decide how long will your license be suspended following your OVI arrest. You have to request this hearing immediately after your arrest otherwise you will automatically lose your right to drive in Ohio. To help you file an appeal, you will definitely need the help of a qualified OVI lawyer. Without assistance, you could face prison, alcohol assessment and rehabilitation, bankruptcy, among many other OVI consequences.
Basic Consequences for First Time Offenders
The state of Ohio has implemented many laws to stop people from drinking while driving. For first time offenders, one can expect to face the following penalties and punishments:
For your subsequent OVI offenses, you can indeed expect to face tougher charges.
License Suspension for Ohio OVI
Apart from facing the above-mentioned consequences, you are also risking your license over your OVI arrest. You can expect to have your license suspended in the following manner:
Unlike many other states in the country, Ohio does not offer temporary licenses following an OVI conviction. Apparently, you can only get your license back after serving your suspension time, completing a Driver Improvement Course, paying $30, and completing a driver license exam.
Insurance Consequences
An alcohol related car accident can bring many negative impacts into your life. Aside from serving jail time, license suspension, and having a criminal record, an OVI conviction in Ohio can also trigger your auto insurance. How your insurer reacts over your OVI conviction may be the worst consequence caused by your driving violation. Your insurer may either cancel your coverage, or give you higher insurance rates. Either way, you will need to have your auto insured to be able to drive again after serving your suspension.