Top Criminal Driving Violations and The Consequences in Ohio

In Ohio, driving requires knowledge of and adherence to traffic regulations to avoid fines, penalties, and other severe repercussions. Criminal driving offenses range in severity from minor infractions to serious crimes with major consequences, such as jail time and license suspension. Let’s explore the top criminal driving violations in Ohio and the repercussions of breaking these laws.

1. Driving Under the Influence (OVI)

One of the most serious criminal violations in Ohio is Operating a Vehicle under the Influence (OVI). This occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or is under the influence of drugs.

Consequences: First-time offenders face potential jail time, significant fines, and a license suspension ranging from one to three years. Repeated offenses can lead to harsher penalties, including longer jail terms and higher fines. In some cases, mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs are required. For drivers convicted of OVI multiple times, permanent license revocation is a possibility.

2. Reckless Driving

Reckless driving refers to operating a vehicle with blatant disregard for the safety of others, including speeding, weaving between lanes, or tailgating.

Consequences: Reckless driving is typically classified as a misdemeanor in Ohio, resulting in fines, possible jail time of up to 30 days, and points added to your driver’s license. Accumulating too many points can lead to a suspended license. If reckless driving results in property damage or an accident, the penalties may include steeper fines or longer jail time.

3. Excessive Speeding

While most speeding violations result in fines, excessive speeding—driving far above the posted limit—can escalate to criminal charges, especially in zones like school or construction areas.

Consequences: Excessive speeding can lead to jail time, significant fines, and up to four points on your license. Speeding in a construction or school zone often results in double fines. Repeated speeding violations may lead to a license suspension.

4. Hit and Run

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without exchanging information or providing assistance to injured parties.

Consequences: The severity of the penalty depends on the collision’s nature. Minor incidents may result in fines and license suspension, while cases involving injuries or fatalities can lead to felony charges, years in prison, and a lifelong driving ban.

5. Driving Without Insurance

Driving without valid auto insurance is illegal in Ohio and can lead to severe financial and legal consequences, especially if involved in an accident.

Consequences: First-time offenders may face fines, possible jail time, and immediate license suspension. Repeat offenders encounter higher fines, longer suspensions, and potentially mandatory SR-22 insurance filings with the state.

6. Vehicular Manslaughter

Vehicular manslaughter occurs when a driver unintentionally causes another person’s death through negligence, often due to distraction, speeding, or driving under the influence.

Consequences: Charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties including lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, and permanent loss of driving privileges. Such cases can lead to years of legal issues and substantial civil penalties.

7. Refusing to Take a Breathalyzer Test

Ohio’s implied consent law means that by driving, you agree to take a chemical test if pulled over for suspected OVI. Refusing a breathalyzer test results in immediate consequences, regardless of OVI guilt.

Consequences: Refusal to take the test leads to an automatic license suspension lasting up to one year. Additionally, refusal can be used in court to support an OVI conviction.

8. The Role of Remedial Driving Courses in Criminal Violations

Many criminal driving violations add points to your driver’s license. In Ohio, drivers who accumulate 12 points within a two-year period face license suspension. Completing a state-approved remedial driving course, like those offered by Improved Driving, can credit up to two points back to your record, helping you avoid suspension and retain driving privileges.

By completing the course, you not only reduce points but also refresh your knowledge of Ohio traffic laws and safe driving techniques, decreasing the risk of future violations.

Final Thoughts on Ohio’s Driving Violations

Criminal driving violations in Ohio come with serious consequences, ranging from fines and points on your record to license suspension or imprisonment. Following Ohio traffic laws, practicing safe driving habits, and enrolling in driving courses that enhance your skills are the best ways to avoid these penalties. Improved Driving provides the necessary training to help drivers correct poor habits, credit points, and maintain driving privileges.

Credit Points on Your License in Ohio with OTPDC

For a convenient, efficient way to manage your driving record, check out the Online Two Point Driving Course. Based in Independence, Ohio, OTPDC provides the best-value driver improvement courses. Visit our website to learn more!