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In Ohio, a DUI/ DWI is referred to as an OVI (operating while impaired) charge. Within the state, the legal alcohol limit for adults 21 and older is .08% BAC, and failure to stay below those levels can come with some significant consequences. These consequences can extend far beyond a courtroom and last a lot longer than any jail sentence you may receive. One of those far longer-lasting effects comes in your car insurance.
Under Ohio Revised Code § 4509.51, any driver who operates a motor vehicle has to have a car insurance policy that meets the following minimum requirements:
- $12,500 bodily injury or death for a person in one accident
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death for two people in an accident
- $7,500 property injury in an accident
- Satisfactory proof to the Registrar that the person can respond to damages at least equal to the above requirements
How Can an OVI Charge Affect My Car Insurance?
Within Ohio, a driver can expect to pay higher car insurance premiums than someone without one. During the first year of the OVI charge, your car insurance premium goes up on average 94.13%, and then it goes up by at least 63.47% above the average coming into the third year since the accident. Unfortunately for Ohio, this is well above the regular average. However, the exact amount your insurance rate goes up depends on your insurance company, due to different insurance companies using various algorithms to calculate premiums.
How Can I Avoid This Charge?
Don’t Drink & Drive
First and foremost, one of the most significant ways to avoid having to deal with all this is not to drink and drive. If you must get somewhere but have been indulging in alcoholic beverages, be responsible and find a ride if you are in a position. This could be a friend, a family member, or an Uber/Lyft.
Contact A Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been charged with an OVI, consider working with an experienced OVI lawyer who can help you get the justice you deserve. OVI attorneys are also beneficial to individuals who performed poorly on a sobriety test.
We Can Help
With more than 15 years of experience, HMW Law has what it takes to fight a case like yours. Our attorneys are dedicated to offering full support and helping understand case details and the best options available moving forward. Let us be your voice.
Contact us today at 216-369-1352 or visit us online to schedule your free case review.