what happens when you have four dui in ohio
What happens when you have four DUI in Ohio? Just like in most parts of the country, you face serious consequences. Receiving four DUI’s in Ohio is a severe offense, with consequences that can affect your life for years. From facing high fines to possible jail time, to losing your license to driving privileges, here are some of the consequences you should be aware of when you have multiple DUI’s in Ohio.
First, when you have four DUI’s in Ohio, the court can impose a jail sentence. Jail time can range from several weeks to 6 months depending on the severity of your case. This can have a quite an impact on your present and future as it can cause you to lose your job or decreased hours.
Second, the court may also require you to attend alcohol classes. You may be asked to attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings or enroll in classes designed to teach you the risks of drinking and to provide lifestyle guidance.
Additionally, you could be required to pay fines and court costs. This could range anywhere between hundreds to thousands of dollars. The amount of the fine depends on the circumstances surrounding your offense such as if someone was hurt as a result of your driving or if your blood alcohol content (BAC) was particularly high.
Fourth, you face the loss of your license. Your license can be suspended or revoked depending on the circumstances of your case. You may have to wait many years to get your license back, or, in some cases, you license may be revoked indefinitely.
It is also important to consider how your DUI’s may impact your career. Your employer might use the offense against you in your job evaluations, or worse, may decide to fire you. In some cases, having multiple DUI’s may also lead to problems getting a job in the future.
Finally, you are likely to have to pay higher insurance rates. You’ll likely be required to get an SR-22 which is an insurance form that states you are insured for a given period of time. This can lead to increased premiums and the possibility of not being able to find affordable insurance.
These are just some of the consequences of having four DUI’s in Ohio. No matter what the circumstances, it is important that you understand the effects that your offense can have and take steps to minimize the impact that it has on your life.
In terms of legal action, getting four DUI’s might lead to a felony charge of operating a vehicle while Under the Influence (OVI). This is seen as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the details of your DUI case, such as if someone was injured during your driving or how high your BAC was. If convicted, felony OVI carries jail time, fines, and a mandatory year of alcohol treatment.
In terms of additional consequences, if you have four DUI’s in Ohio, don’t expect leniency from the Court. Prior DUI’s will be immediately taken into consideration and you can expect harsher punishment than a first-time offense. DUI convictions can last up to six years in Ohio so future employers may be able to view your record if they do a background check.
One of the best ways to avoid the outcomes of a four DUI offense in Ohio is to stay away from drinking and driving. While this may seem overly simple, it is the best way to avoid being in a position where you have four DUI’s in Ohio. It is also important to be aware of other consequences of drinking and driving such as loss of life or permanent injuries to those involved so that you can make thoughtful decisions before getting behind the wheel.
We must also acknowledge the importance of education and insight into the issue. People should be properly informed on the dangers of drinking and driving, as well as the direct consequences a four DUI offense in Ohio can bring to their life. By understanding how their actions can negatively affect themselves and others, hopefully people can be more aware when behind the wheel and make the right decisions in the future.
There are also multiple programs in place to help those who have multiple DUI’s in Ohio. From charitable organizations to specific treatment centers, there are people willing to help you pick up the pieces and move on from a difficult situation. Additionally, some of these organizations may be able to provide free or discounted legal counsel as well, which is also beneficial in guiding you through your legal journey.
It is never too late to change your life for the better. With the right guidance and education, you can learn to make better decisions and also help educate others on the potential dangers of drink driving. Your life does not end with four DUI’s in Ohio and you can take this opportunity to turn your life around and learn from your experience. Be sure to talk to a lawyer and to supportive people to guide your journey.
