Ohio accident results in OVI charges for one driver

Motor vehicle accidents most often occur due to driver error. One question that arises in many crashes is whether the mistake or series of mistakes that led to the accident warrant criminal charges. When police officers suspect something such as alcohol or drugs contributed to an accident, a driver could face charges for OVI, which is Ohio's version of driving under the influenced and stands for operating a vehicle while impaired. 

In a recent crash, responding police officers suspected one of the drivers of OVI and placed him under arrest. Preliminary reports indicate that driver failed to obey a stop sign and entered an intersection already occupied by another vehicle. The driver's vehicle struck the driver's side of the other vehicle. Reports did not indicate whether any injuries occurred, let alone whether they were serious.

During the on-scene investigation, police preliminarily determined that drugs and/or alcohol played a role in the crash. The driver participated in field sobriety tests, which the man allegedly failed. A breath test indicated his blood alcohol concentration was .205, which is well above the legal limit. Whether those results are accurate could be litigated in court.

In the meantime, the driver in question faces charges for a stop sign violation and OVI. Considering the possible criminal penalties and repercussions to any Ohio resident in this position, it would be a good idea to immediately begin reviewing the alleged evidence and mounting a defense. Due to the complexities of this undertaking, enlisting the aid of an experienced criminal defense attorney will prove invaluable.