If you find yourself in Columbus facing a DUI/OVI charge, brace yourself for the mandatory chemical tests that await you. These tests, whether they involve breath, blood, or urine samples, determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). It’s crucial to be aware of the legal limit for alcohol in Ohio to understand the potential consequences of your situation.
The Legal Limit
In Ohio, the legal limit for a DUI is set at 0.08 BAC. If your test results exceed this threshold, you will be charged with an OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired). However, it’s important to note that if your BAC measures over 0.17, you face additional penalties as it falls into a higher offense category. Regardless of your BAC, it is highly recommended to consult with a reputable Columbus DUI lawyer when charged with an OVI. They can guide you through the process, present your options, and help you achieve a favorable resolution.
Understanding Your BAC
To gain a better understanding of how Ohio’s legal limit affects your case, review the charts below. Bear in mind that these tables provide an approximation and may not be exact. In case you have any questions, feel free to contact us at (614) 500-3836.
BAC Levels for Men & Women
The following tables serve as a reference for estimating BAC based on the type, volume, and number of drinks consumed, as well as the individual’s body weight. Remember, these are just estimates and shouldn’t be taken as absolute measurements.
Legal Limit for Under 21 Drivers
While consuming alcohol is illegal for individuals under 21 in Ohio, the legal BAC limit for drivers in this age group is a mere 0.02%. Compared to the 0.08% limit for adults, this is an extremely low threshold, meaning even a single drink can push an underage driver over the legal limit. It’s crucial for underage drivers to exercise extreme caution as underage DUIs carry serious consequences and penalties.
Legal Limit for Commercial Drivers
Commercial drivers, such as truck drivers, need to be especially cautious. If you possess a commercial driver’s license (CDL), Ohio law imposes a stricter BAC limit of 0.04. This means that if a CDL holder is pulled over and their BAC measures 0.05 or higher, they can be charged with a DUI. Similar to drivers under 21, those with a CDL in Ohio should refrain from driving after consuming any amount of alcohol.
How Our Columbus DUI Lawyers Can Assist You
Being charged with a DUI in Ohio can have a significant impact on your future and legal rights. With potential consequences like jail time, fines, and suspended driving privileges, it’s vital to have a reliable support system in place.
At Garrity Traina, our skilled Columbus DUI attorneys have extensive experience handling numerous DUI cases each year, successfully obtaining favorable outcomes and mitigated penalties for our clients. BAC test results are not infallible, and there may be flaws in how you were stopped or tested. Our attorneys can challenge the validity of the BAC test or limit the admissible evidence to potentially reduce or dismiss your OVI charges.
Even if your case proceeds to court, our attorneys can work towards achieving a favorable and lenient outcome, protecting your driving privileges, and helping you move forward so that a DUI conviction does not impede your future.
Contact Garrity Traina 24/7 for Assistance with an Ohio OVI
Allow us to thoroughly analyze your BAC test results and find viable solutions to aid your case. Schedule a free consultation today to explore your options and discover a pathway to improve your OVI case. Call us now at (614) 500-3836 or email advice@garritytraina.com. Remember, there’s always a way to navigate through your legal challenges. Let us help you find it.