Fleeing and Eluding

Fleeing and Eluding Cases With a Warren OVI Lawyer

Driving under the influence, or DUI, carries serious consequences on its own. But when a driver doesn’t comply with an order to stop—or ignores a signal given by a police officer—they may face an additional charge of Fleeing and Eluding on top of their OVI charges. This combination can lead to far harsher penalties than a standard DUI case.

Most of the time, this offense is treated as a misdemeanor. In certain situations, however, it can be elevated to a felony. Prosecutors often use fleeing and eluding charges to argue that the driver already knew they were breaking the law by driving while impaired. If the motorist has a suspended license or an outstanding warrant, they’re seen as more likely to flee—and the prosecution can prove that point with relative ease.

That said, there can be legitimate reasons why a driver doesn’t stop after receiving a signal or order. Personal safety may be a genuine concern, especially when the officer isn’t in uniform or the police vehicle is unmarked. Weather conditions can also play a role, making it difficult for a driver to see or hear the signal in the first place.

Warren Criminal Lawyer for Fleeing and Eluding

If you or a loved one has been charged in a case like this—and you’re bracing for a long, stressful ordeal ahead—turn to us at Youngstown Criminal Law Group. We’re one of the best places to find a skilled Warren OVI attorney who can fight your case and help you secure justice.

The Charges for Fleeing and Eluding in Ohio

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2921.331, fleeing and eluding is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. Failing to comply with a signal or order from any police officer authorized to control, direct, or regulate traffic is treated as a serious offense.

Failure to comply rises to a fourth-degree felony when the offender flees immediately after committing a felony. The crime can also become a third-degree felony for the following reasons:

• The driver’s operation of the vehicle caused physical harm to a person or damage to property
• The driver’s operation of the vehicle created a substantial risk to a person or property

Navigating a case like this calls for the help of an experienced Warren criminal lawyer. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, you’ll find the right advocate to defend you.

When reviewing the case, the court will weigh the following factors:

• The distance and duration of the pursuit
• The speed at which the offender attempted to flee the scene
• Whether the offender ignored traffic lights or failed to stop at signals during the pursuit
• The number of signals, signs, or traffic lights the offender failed to stop at during the pursuit
• Whether the offender continued driving without vehicle lights when conditions required them
• Whether the offender committed a moving violation during the pursuit, and how many times
• Any other misconduct by the offender that could amount to a serious offense

Penalties in Case of Failure to Comply

Even if the OVI case is dismissed, the accused can still be charged with fleeing and eluding. A failure-to-comply conviction can add six points to a driver’s record and drive up insurance rates. If you’re facing this scenario, a trusted Warren OVI attorney can help protect your interests.

Fleeing and eluding can also jeopardize your driving privileges. A misdemeanor or failure-to-comply charge can result in a suspension lasting anywhere from six months to three years. If a felony conviction is proven, the driver’s license can be suspended for three years—or for life.

Alongside these consequences, the following sentences may be imposed:

• First-Degree Misdemeanor — Up to 180 days of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000;
• Fourth-Degree Felony — Up to 18 months of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000; or
• Third-Degree Felony — Up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.

An experienced lawyer can help you face the consequences of these charges head-on and build a strong defense.

Find a Warren OVI Attorney for Your Case

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we understand exactly what you’re up against. Our dedicated Trumbull County legal team is experienced in defending clients in court and helping them achieve justice. For a free consultation, reach out to us today at (330) 791-8104.