As you may know if you’re a frequent visitor to our blog here at eTags, we love all things automotive. That includes, breaking news, trends, and of course, anything at all that relates to titles and tags. We mean transfers, replacements, duplicates, name changes, specialty plates…we dig it all! But we’re also keen to track developments in the sphere of driving rules and regulations.
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Today we thought we’d get you up to speed (yes, we love a good pun) with some recent additions to traffic laws in the state of Ohio:
Increased Penalties for Driving Under the Influence
While drunk driving and operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs have always been crimes punishable across the country, Ohio has recently upped the ante for its drivers. Owing to a law named “Liv’s Law,”in memory and honor of Olivia Wright, who lost her life to a drunk driver, Ohio has increased its penalties for OVI (Operating a Vehicle under the Influence) violations.
The fine for a first offence of OVI has risen by $190, making the new fine $565 from the previous $375. In addition, the law allows for a $10,000 increase in the penalty for aggravated vehicle homicide – the fine is now $25,000.
Finally, in order to really lock down on drivers who may be operating under the influence, police officers are now permitted to collect oral samples from folks suspected of drunk driving. Previously, the only tests allowed were blood, urine, and breath testing. And staying in line with the other forms of testing, should a driver refuse an oral fluid test, they could face criminal charges.
Changes To License Suspensions
In the past, the state of Ohio maintained the right to suspend a person’s license as a penalty for some sort of violation. And when we say, “some sort,” we’re referring to over thirty (30) different acts that could result in temporarily losing your license. For example, failing to pay court fees or traffic tickets in a timely manner. But recently, the Buckeye State has resolved to lift this penalty from any acts that are not associated with dangerous driving.
So, what does this mean? It means that Ohio has rescinded the demand for $8.38 million in fees owed because of suspended licenses. That’s one hefty chunk of change. The recent law has thus lifted around 170,000 suspensions and registration blocks, and has reinstated roughly 7,100 licenses.
From this point on, Ohio plans to reserve driver’s license suspension only when an individual has been convicted of a crime related to danger driving.
Distracted Driving Enforcement
In the state of Ohio, not only is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving, but it also against the law to hold said device with any part of the body. Meaning, you won’t get away with cradling your phone in your lap or armpit, in case you thought that was a loophole.
According to a recent crackdown on distracted driving, any police officer is allowed to pull you over if you are engaged in the use of electronics bodily. The penalties for this violation are as follows:
- First offense in two years: 2 points on your license and up to a $150 fine
- Second offense in two years: 3 points, up to a $250 fine
- Third offense or more in two years: 4 points, up to a $500 fine, and possible 90-day license suspension
Important note: these fines double if the violation happens in a work zone.
So, while drivers over 18 may use Bluetooth to make and receive calls, all other bodily interaction with electronic devices are strictly prohibited.
And this is how Ohio is cracking down on driving laws in attempt to make roads and highways in the Buckeye State safer for everyone. Now, if you’re an Ohio resident and need to transfer your title or registration or replace a lost or damaged title, you’ve come to the right place. Head over to our site and let us assist you…because as always, at eTags, we’re here to help!
