When you get right down to it, DUI, DWI, OMVI, and OVI all mean a possible arrest. Whether cited for DUI (driving under the influence); DWI (driving while intoxicated); OMVI (operating a motor vehicle while impaired) or OVI (operating a vehicle while impaired), it all means the same thing: you were arrested for allegedly operating a motor vehicle on a public road while impaired either by alcohol or another substance. DUI has become the catch-all term, but it incorporates all of the other acronyms. The level of intoxication you exhibited when arrested, whether it is above or below the legal limit of 0.08% BAC, determines if you were “per se” intoxicated, or driving buzzed.
Buzzed Driving is Still Drunk Driving
It is not necessary that your BAC be 0.08% or above for you to be charged with a DUI. If you appear to be impaired, there is good cause for you to be stopped by a police officer and given a sobriety test. Everyone’s metabolism is different when it comes to alcohol consumption due to differences in weight and sex, as well as how quickly the individual consumed alcohol and whether he or she ate food while drinking. Where one person may have two or three cocktails and not appear to be visibly impaired, another person can have one beer with a decidedly different result. The length of time between the consumption of alcohol and getting behind the wheel of an automobile also affects your BAC.
Most states have “zero tolerance” for anyone operating a motor vehicle on the public highways while impaired. An officer may stop you to determine if you are impaired if you display any of the following behavior patterns while driving:
- Making wide or narrow turns or swerving;
- Straddling two lanes while driving;
- Nearly hitting someone or something;
- Weaving in and out of traffic;
- Driving too slowly or being overly cautious;
- Driving too close to a vehicle in front of you; and
- Erratic braking.
These indicators may mean some kind of impairment. See Ohio Drunk Driving Codes.
Work with an Ohio DUI Attorney
It is critical that you understand the law when faced with a potential DUI charge. If charged with any crime, do you know your rights? It is important that anyone accused of any type of crime, get quality representation on their side, prior to any interrogation process, starting with his or her arrest. You will need experienced and knowledgeable legal counsel working for you as soon as possible. If you are facing criminal charges in Dayton, please contact the DUI attorneys at The VanNoy Law Firm online or give us a call at 937-952-5043.