Ohio Drunk Driving Laws

Like most states, Ohio lawmakers have little tolerance for drunk drivers. In light of the number of alcohol-related accidents that occur each year, state officials have passed a number of laws limiting the amount of alcohol drivers are permitted to have in their system. Known as blood alcohol content (BAC) restrictions, these guidelines are used to determine whether a driver should be arrested for operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI). Unfortunately, this means that while you may show no signs of intoxication, you could be considered legally impaired—and with the state’s strict BAC limits, Ohio drunk driving laws are certainly no exception to this rule.

There are three BAC guidelines that every driver should be aware of when traveling on Ohio roads. First and foremost, it is against the law for anyone to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. For individuals under 21, however, it takes only a 0.02% BAC to warrant an arrest. Last, but not least, if you operate a commercial vehicle (such as a bus, tow truck, or tractor trailer), you can be charged with OVI for driving with a BAC of 0.04%.

The only way a person’s blood alcohol content can be determined is through chemical testing methods, such as breathalyzers and/or blood or urine tests. In Ohio, you are legally required to submit to such testing if an officer suspects you are driving under the influence. In fact, due to the state’s “Implied Consent Law,” simply refusing to perform a chemical test can lead to your arrest.

If you are convicted of OVI, the judge will take a close look at your driving record before imposing a sentence. The typical penalties for a first offense include a fine of $250 or more, up to a three-year license suspension, and a minimum three-day jail sentence. If this is your second conviction, however, the terms of your sentence may increase to $1,500 in fines, a one- to five-year license suspension, and a minimum ten-day jail sentence. For a third OVI conviction, you could spend up to a year behind bar and pay $1,500 in fines—and you can also expect your driving privileges to be revoked for the next one to ten years.

After three prior convictions, any subsequent drunk driving charges will be classified as felonies. As a more severe offense, the maximum penalties for a felony OVI conviction include a one-year jail sentence, $10,000 fine, and a permanent license suspension. A felony conviction can also jeopardize many of your personal freedoms, including your voting rights, passport eligibility, and ability to purchase firearms.

Fortunately, there are many ways to avoid the consequences of an Ohio drunk driving conviction. With the right defense strategy, you may be able to challenge your arrest and reduce or eliminate the charges against you in court.

To determine the best course of action for your case, simply complete our online form today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled OVI defense attorney in your area.