In Ohio, drinking and driving don’t mix. The state is tough on alcohol-impaired drivers with its minimum legal blood alcohol content (BAC) for adults 21 and over being set at 0.08 percent and 0.02 percent for those under 21 years. But being caught with a BAC of 0.17 percent or above is considered a super drunk driving charge. Thats double the legal limit in Ohio, and any driver facing such a charge had better be ready for a heavy penalty.
At 0.17 percent BAC and higher, Ohio has criminalized high BAC as a super OVI or super drunk driving charge. This often triggers jail time and other serious penalties such as hefty fines, license suspension, and in some serious cases, the offender could even have their car impounded. Additionally, a super OVI stays on the offenders criminal record permanently, making it harder for them to rebuild their life after the DUI charge.
Any driver in Ohio who gets caught driving with a BAC of 0.17 percent or more can expect to face a jail sentence and other various charges. Ohios super drunk driving law provides for a maximum of 180 days in jail along with a possible mandatory minimum of three days in jail, even for first-time offenders. Penalties also include an expensive fine and having the offenders drivers license suspended for up to one year. Additionally, the penalties increase with subsequent super OVI offenses, making it imperative for a driver to understand and adhere to the laws.
Loss of driving privilege is perhaps the most significant consequence of a super drunk driving charge. In Ohio, the persons license gets suspended for one year and they may also be required to install an ignition interlock device for up to three years on any vehicle operated. Those found driving with a suspended license related to a super drunk driving offense can face even more jail time, fines, drivers license revocation, and other restrictions.
Apart from the high penalties, there are other serious implications of a super drunk driving charge. To start with, an offender can lose their job or be denied employment due to such a charge. Additionally, the criminal record of the offense will follow the offender for a lifetime, making it difficult to get a loan or any other form of financial assistance. This often affects their social life as well, with friends and family shunning a person facing such a charge.
In addition to existing laws, local police forces are also increasingly aware of super drunk drivers and are on the lookout for drivers under the influence in Ohio. Devices such as sobriety tests are often used to detect BAC levels and police forces are often stationed at random locations across the state, at any time of day or night to look for intoxication. Any driver found to be above the 0.17 percent BAC level will face severe penalties.
That being said, there are preventive measures everyone can take to avoid this kind of charge. Above all, Ohio residents should remember that drinking and driving dont mix. People should avoid driving if theyve had a few drinks, and designate a driver or use a car service whenever they plan to go out for drinks. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and can go a long way in helping Ohio residents avoid a super drunk driving charge.
Once the charge is laid, however, the fastest route for an accused to minimize penalties is to seek legal help from a qualified attorney specializing in drunk driving. A competent attorney can help the accused take necessary steps to defend their rights and ensure that the charge does not impact their lives and future.
Moreover, aspirational breathalyzer technology is now available in Ohio which allows drivers to determine the exact level of their breath alcohol content. This small device can provide vital information to drivers as to whether it is safe to drive or not, thus helping drivers make sound decisions whenever they are in doubt.
An ounce of prevention passes the test of wisdom. The best way for Ohio residents to avoid a super drunk driving charge in Ohio is to lay off the drinks when planning on getting behind the wheel. The amount of alcohol consumed, even if below the legal limit, can still have severe implications once you hit the road. The stigma of a drunk driving charge is hard to shake off, and the associated penalties are severe. A super drunk driving charge can mean a much heavier burden on the individual and their family, and no one wants to face that. So its best to avoid this situation altogether and take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of yourself and others when behind the wheel.
Education can also go a long way in helping residents of the Buckeye State better understand the consequences of drunk driving and the importance of safe driving. As part of this effort, Ohio offers alcohol awareness classes which provide an in-depth look at the states alcohol laws and its impact on communities. Additionally, local schools can collaborate with state agencies to educate students on the importance of making the right decisions when it comes to drinking and driving.
Apart from formal education, its also important for concerned family members, responsible adults, and educators to discuss the dangers of driving under the influence with young adults. Openly talking about the risks involved in drinking and driving can have measurable impacts and can empower young adults to take responsibility for their choices and to act safely when behind the wheel.
Supporting the states initiatives to ensure that its roads are safe is everyones responsibility. Ohios super drunk driving law serves as a reminder that drinking and driving dont mix. Ohios 0.17 percent threshold is among the toughest in the country and any person facing such a charge should take the necessary steps to protect their rights and secure their future.
Being charged with a super drunk driving offense can mean a heavy burden on a driver, both emotionally and financially. Ohio residents should also be aware of the importance of SR-22 insurance, which is often required to reinstate the driving privileges of an offender. An SR-22 insurance policy is a document issued by the insurance service indicating that the driver has the insurance required by state law after a suspension. And auto insurance is essential to cover the costs in the event of an accident.
Its also essential for Ohio residents to understand the legal limits for drivers under 21. Ohios state law sets the legal BAC limit at 0.02 percent for minors, a much lower threshold than that imposed on adult drivers. If a minor is caught with any measurable amount of alcohol in their bloodstream, they may face charges of underage drinking, in addition to other DUI-related charges.
Everyone has the responsibility to protect themselves and others on Ohios roads and lowering the 0.17 percent BAC for super drunk driving is a key factor in this. Ohio residents should be aware that while laws and regulations may vary slightly from county to county, all have a common goalto keep drivers accountable and to keep people safe.
When it comes to reducing the number of drunk driving related cases, public awareness is critical. Media, social media, and billboards are powerful tools for disseminating useful information and creating awareness about the various risks associated with drinking and driving. In addition, developing campaigns that inform the public about existing DUI penalties can also help bring down the rates of drunk driving in Ohio.
Recognizing that bad decisions can lead to life altering consequences should be the first step for Ohio residents when it comes to avoiding a super drunk driving charge. Reflecting on the dangers of such a charge should be the motivation to take the responsible route and stay safe on the states roads. So, the next time youre thinking about getting behind the wheel, remember that Ohios roads are made for driving, not drinking.
