Ohio Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
Drunk driving is a criminal offense in Ohio known as operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI). The crime is referred to as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) in other jurisdictions, and the practice of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated is forbidden specifically because of its potential harm to others.
Drunk drivers who cause traffic crashes in Ohio are usually prosecuted in criminal cases, and they can be sentenced to terms of imprisonment and ordered to pay fines if convicted. People who suffered serious injuries or whose loved ones were killed by motorists convicted of OVI can file civil claims against the negligent motorists to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
When a driver who causes a crash is convicted of OVI in Ohio, the conviction can serve as proof of negligence for the civil claim. As a result, the driver can be liable for economic, noneconomic, and possibly punitive damages.
Ohio OVI Laws
Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19(A)(1)(a) makes it a crime for a person to operate a vehicle while he or she is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. The statute establishes certain limits applying to different tests of a person’s blood, breath, or urine, but the limit that most is frequently cited is the limit of 0.08 as it relates to a person’s breath alcohol concentration.
When a driver is under the influence of an illegal drug, urine or blood tests are usually better indicators of impairment. Some drivers may refuse to submit to any kind of chemical testing, but people suspected of causing crashes that have resulted in injury or death can often be considered exigent circumstances that justify forced blood draws to obtain samples without consent.
Ohio Dram Shop Laws
Ohio Revised Code § 4399.18 is known as the state’s “dram shop law.” A dram refers to the unit of alcohol that used to be sold in establishments during the 18th century in England.
Under the dram shop law, a licensed vendor of alcohol—such as a bar, restaurant, or tavern—can be held liable for a victim’s injuries stemming from a drunk driving crash when the establishment served the motorist and he or she was either:
- Noticeably intoxicated; or
- A minor.
If a driver became intoxicated on private property, the negligent party is often referred to as a “social host.” While a social host is not liable for the actions of adults who consumed alcohol on private property, state law does allow social hosts to be held liable for serving minors.
Ohio Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
The immediate aftermath of a crash caused by a drunk driver can be extremely disorienting for victims but Need an Injury Attorney Ohio can help these people pursue justice. Our personal injury lawyers will work to hold all negligent parties fully accountable.
Our firm will pursue compensation for all of your lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages arising from a crash caused by an intoxicated motorist. We can be contacted 24/7 and will provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your case during a free, no-obligation consultation.