Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers | November 20, 2025 | Car Accidents
In Ohio, including Vermilion, the terms DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are no longer used as official charges. Many states still rely on DUI or DWI, but Ohio now uses OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) to describe driving or being in physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs a factor that often plays a significant role in car accidents and resulting personal injuries.
If you’re facing charges, it can be helpful to learn more about OVI and OVI-related facts. Here’s what you need to know about OVI.
What Constitutes OVI in Ohio?
According to the law, OVI includes operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. A person can be charged with OVI for having certain controlled substances in their system (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine).
However, OVI is not limited to driving with a BAC above the legal limit or drugged driving. You can be charged with OVI even though your BAC is under the legal limit. Driving “under the influence” of alcohol or drugs can also result in OVI charges.
What Is the Definition of “Vehicle” for OVI Charges?
The law defines “vehicle” very broadly. It covers cars, motorcycles, and trucks, as well as ATVs, electric scooters, golf carts, and even non-motorized vehicles (like bicycles). Impairment charges cover a broad range of situations.
Therefore, riding a bicycle while intoxicated could lead to OVI charges.
What Does It Mean To Be in Physical Control of a Vehicle?
The code defines physical control as being in the driver’s position and having possession of the vehicle’s ignition device or key. Therefore, you could be charged with a crime even if you are not driving while under the influence.
The law clearly states that if someone has physical control of a vehicle while under the influence, they can be charged with a misdemeanor.
Penalties for an OVI Conviction in Ohio
Criminal penalties for OVI—including jail time, fines, license suspension, and mandatory treatment programs—are separate from the civil consequences an impaired driver may face if they injure someone.
Victims may pursue compensation for medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term damages. Repeat offenders and high-BAC drivers often face enhanced civil scrutiny, strengthening an injury victim’s claim.
Building an Injury Claim After an OVI-Related Crash
When an impaired driver causes a collision, a personal injury lawyer investigates the evidence, including police reports, chemical testing accuracy, prior offenses, and witness statements.
Potential issues such as improper testing, medical conditions, or rising BAC may be relevant in criminal court—but victims may still have strong claims based on negligence, reckless behavior, and statutory violations.
A lawyer may also evaluate:
- Whether the impaired driver violated traffic laws
- Whether earlier decisions (e.g., overserving at a bar) contributed to the crash
- The full scope of medical and financial losses suffered by the victim
With the right legal guidance, injured victims can protect their rights, hold the impaired driver accountable, and seek the full compensation they deserve after an OVI-related crash.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one was injured by an impaired driver in Vermilion or anywhere in Ohio, you have the right to pursue compensation for your losses. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help gather evidence, work with experts, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the full recovery you deserve.
For legal guidance after an OVI-related accident, contact Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with a Vermilion personal injury attorney.
For more information, contact the Vermilion car accident law firm of Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
We have six convenient locations in Ohio: Sandusky, Mansfield, Port Clinton, Vermilion, Norwalk, and Huron.
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Sandusky
502 W Washington St,
Sandusky, OH 44870
(419) 625-7770
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers– Mansfield
6 W 3rd St Suite 200 B,
Mansfield, OH 44902
(419) 910-2605
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Port Clinton
132 Madison St,
Port Clinton, OH 43452
(419) 871-3995
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Vermilion
1513 State Rd,
Vermilion, OH 44089
(440) 967-6136
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Norwalk
13 Whittlesey Ave,
Norwalk, OH 44857
(419) 863-5922
Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers – Huron
202 Cleveland Rd W unit 1
Huron, OH 44839
(419) 827-5884