what happens when u get a dui and a driving under suspension in ohio
Do you know what happens when you get a DUI and a driving under suspension in Ohio? Do you think you will be able to handle the repercussions? The fact is that you should never make light of these serious charges. These charges can have far-reaching effects that could harm your ability to drive, work, and have a comfortable lifestyle in the future.
The very first repercussion of getting a DUI or driving under suspension in Ohio is that you’ll face the suspension of your license for up to three years. Depending on your situation, you could rescind your license including any special endorsements. The suspension starts from the time you’re booked and further aggravated under Section 4510.12 of the Ohio Revised Code.
The second repercussion is costly fines and fees. You may be required to pay fines ranging from $500 to $1,250, court costs, $475 reinstatement fee, alcohol and/or drug treatment programs, and other administrative fees. In Ohio, the fines are designed to be punitive, meaning they are not negotiable.
The third repercussion is the possibility of jail time. In Ohio, a first-time DUI offender will face at least ten days in jail. A second-time offender will face at least twenty days in jail, and a third or fourth offense carries a mandatory thirty days in jail.
The fourth repercussion is that you’ll lose your right to carry a firearm. If you’re a law enforcement officer or carry a concealed handgun license, you will lose your privilege to carry a firearm.
The fifth repercussion is the increase in your insurance rates. The insurance company will increase your premiums by an average of 28% following a DUI conviction.
The sixth repercussion is having a permanent record. A DUI or driving under suspension conviction will remain on your criminal record forever. This means that any background check you go through will be affected.
And the seventh and final repercussion is the damage to your reputation. Even if you are in good standing with the law, your DUI or driving under suspension conviction will remain in the public record and can be accessed by anyone. This could lead people to think less of you, the effects of which could last for years.
Now, let’s take a look at what you need to avoid to stay out of harm’s way. Firstly, don’t speed or drive carelessly. Secondly, don’t ever drink and drive. Thirdly, pay attention to road signs, obey the laws, and furnish valid car documents. Fourthly, seek help for substance abuse. All these steps will help you stay on the right side of the law.
In addition to the above, you should learn the Ohio Laws pertaining to operating a motor vehicle. Knowing the law can alert you to situations where you may be breaking the law without realizing it. This knowledge will help you avoid any mishaps and the repercussions that follow.
Even if you have a DUI or driving under suspension conviction in Ohio, you can still take steps towards securing a better future for yourself. You can attend traffic safety courses, file for an occupational driver’s license, take clean driving classes, and take other measures to improve your driving record.
But make sure you don’t get into anymore trouble with the law. Don’t have alcohol in your car, don’t miss any court hearings, and don’t take drugs and drive. Also, don’t drive while your license is suspended. One slip-up can lead to a further suspension or revocation.
Finally, if you have been convicted of DUI or driving under suspension in Ohio, take it seriously. Don’t underestimate the long-term repercussions and try to stay vigilant and work towards rebuilding your life.
Now, let’s look at specific measures you can take to stay out of harm’s way once convicted. Regular alcohol monitoring might be ordered, either in the form of continuous alcohol monitoring or an alcohol ignition interlock device. If you’re being released, you may be subject to probation. This includes refraining from drinking, completing a program for alcoholics, and abstaining from drug use.
For driving-related offenses, you may be required to take driver education, perform community service, attend a defensive driving class, or take related courses. Fines may also be imposed on you depending on applicable laws.
It’s also a good idea to file for an occupational driver’s license so you can still drive legally to your job and other essential places, even if your case is still pending. Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles processes and evaluates the applications after making sure that all applicable rules and regulations have been followed.
There is also the option of enrolling in a drug or alcohol program to demonstrate your sincerity towards rehabilitation and reform. A successful completion of the program can have a positive effect on your criminal record and save you from further legal action.
It’s important to be aware of your rights if stopped by the police. Understand that you do not have to answer any questions if you believe it may incriminate you. You have the right to remain silent and can refuse to sign anything.
Ohio law enforcement will often utilize a breathalyzer test to measure alcohol content in the body, therefore it’s important to know how to properly maintain the machine and how to challenge a breathalyzer test if you think it has been administered incorrectly.
Finally, once you have served out your sentence, reach out to organizations for help and advice. Organizations such as M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) can provide valuable assistance and advice. They can also ensure that you get your license back and continue living a healthy life.
