If you have been pulled over due to being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, there's a chance you may have been tested or charged for an OVI.
What Is an OVI?
An OVI, or operation of a vehicle while impaired, is something you can be charged with if you are caught operating any type of vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you're pulled over and tested, and your blood-alcohol level is above .08, you will most likely be taken into police custody and charged with an OVI.
What Is Considered a Vehicle?
Almost every form of transportation is considered a vehicle when referring to OVI law.
These vehicles can include:
- Cars
- Trucks
- Bicycles
- Golf carts
- ATVs
- Horse-drawn carriage
- Boat
The vehicles do not need to be motorized vehicles for you to cause a danger to others while impaired, therefore they do not need to be motorized to receive an OVI charge. It is important to remember you do not need to be driving one of these vehicles to receive a charge. If you are found in the driver's spot and could begin driving (e.g. you have the keys on you), you can still be charged.
What to Do If You're Being Arrested for an OVI
The first and most important thing you will want to do if you are being arrested for an OVI is to call an OVI attorney as soon as possible. An OVI attorney is the best chance you have at getting your charges dropped or even reduced. If you don't have an attorney to call, you can call a family member and have them find you an attorney. The sooner you get an attorney by your side, the better.
What Is an OVI Attorney?
An OVI attorney is the type of attorney that specializes in OVI cases. An OVI attorney will have experience in defending those charged with OVIs. They have the training and knowledge required to fight an OVI charge that you will not have on your own.
What Does an OVI Attorney Do?
An OVI attorney's most obvious responsibility is to represent you in court if it does come to that.
Other tasks an OVI attorney can do for you include:
- Providing legal advice
- Completing documentation
- Making sure police protocol was followed
- Enter plea bargains
- Hold evidentiary hearings
- Jury selection
Contact an OVI defense attorney for more information.
