What used to be known as DUI charges in the state of Ohio is now known as OVI, or operating a damaged vehicle. What many people don’t know about OVI/DUI charges is that the law is not limited to people who drive a traditional vehicle, such as a car or truck. An officer can charge you with drunk driving if he is driving a golf cart, an ATV, a lawnmower, or even riding a bike.

If you think you can avoid an OVI/DUI arrest by sleeping in your car before driving home, you’d be wrong. An officer may file OVI/DUI charges against any individual who is “in control” of the vehicle. Under Ohio law, if he is in the driver’s seat and has the keys in place, he is in control of that vehicle and may face an OVI/DUI arrest.

Be polite, but don’t incriminate yourself
Whether you’ve been pulled over for speeding or drifting out of your lane, a police officer is trained to identify evidence of intoxication from the moment he approaches your vehicle. After finding a safe place to pull over, he stays in his car with his hands on the wheel. He is courteous and does not lie to the officer, however, he may refuse to answer incriminating questions.

Any remark an officer makes, slurred speech, alcohol or drugs visible in the vehicle, lack of coordination, etc., will be used as probable cause to justify the officer making an arrest for driving while intoxicated. Don’t add to that evidence by answering “how much has he had to drink” with an answer of “5 beers and 3 shots of tequila.” You have the right not to answer, and your OVI/DUI attorney will appreciate it.

After an arrest, it is your attorney’s job to review any evidence the officer collected to determine if the officer was warranted to administer a field sobriety test and/or arrest you. Charges can be dismissed if this evidence does not hold up, but not if you incriminate yourself with your answers.

Breathalyzers and chemical tests
When pulled over for suspected drunk driving, the officer may ask you to submit to a breathalyzer or request a urine or blood test to determine if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. He has the right to refuse, however, he will face an OVI/DUI arrest and will automatically lose his license for a minimum of one year. This is outlined in Ohio’s implied consent law. However, it is to your advantage if he refuses to blow, which will make it difficult for the officer to gather evidence against you.

Your rights after an arrest
Ohio law determines that a driver is “under the influence” if they have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. However, an OVI charge is not limited to alcohol. The use of drugs, legal or otherwise, that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle may result in a charge of OVI.

Your OVI/DUI defense begins as soon as you are pulled over. When he is arrested, he has the right to request an OVI/DUI attorney who can advise him of his options. In situations like this, you want an OVI/DUI attorney who is not only experienced in handling Ohio law, but is also available 24/7.