OVI With Property Damage in Youngstown, Ohio

Living in Ohio means understanding the strict punitive nature of charges related to drunk driving or operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When an OVI incident results in serious damage to private or public property, the consequences escalate significantly. If you or a loved one finds themselves in this predicament, you will likely face a three-pronged legal battle: criminal charges for OVI, criminal charges for property damage, and a potential civil lawsuit stemming from the same incident.

In such complex scenarios, it is natural to feel as though you are stuck in deep mud. Connecting with a professional for legal assistance is essential to navigating these challenges. There may be various contributory reasons for the accident and subsequent property damage that need to be investigated. To build the strongest possible defense in Mahoning County, you need the expertise of the Youngstown Criminal Law Group. An experienced Youngstown criminal lawyer from our group can provide the dedicated support necessary to handle your case effectively.

Ohio Laws for Property Damage With a Vehicle

According to Ohio Law, there are two primary criminal offenses regarding property damage involving a vehicle.

The first offense concerns the willful operation or wanton disregard for the safety of property or persons involved in an accident. This is defined under Ohio Rev. Code §4511.20, which mandates that “no person shall operate a vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar on any street or highway in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property.” Generally, this is classified as a minor misdemeanor. However, if the offender has been adjudicated guilty of another traffic law violation within the previous year, the charge escalates to a fourth-degree misdemeanor. If the offender has committed two or more offenses within the last year, it is considered a third-degree misdemeanor. A qualified Youngstown DUI attorney can help you understand these specific gradations.

The second offense involves the act of operating a vehicle on a highway or off-street location with willful or wanton disregard for the well-being of any person or property. Defined in ORC § 4511.201, this violation is typically considered a minor misdemeanor. However, if there is a prior misdemeanor conviction within one year, it is elevated to a third-degree misdemeanor.

If you have been involved in an accident resulting in damage to public or private property, grasping the gravity of these statutes can be difficult. This is why hiring a professional is critical. Only an expert can fully explain the offenses and their varying degrees. To consult with a knowledgeable Youngstown criminal lawyer, reach out to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group.

Civil Consideration for OVI with Property Damage

In addition to OVI charges, if you are accused of property damage, you must also be concerned with potential civil actions filed by the property owner. The owner can pursue civil measures to secure financial compensation from you for the destruction of their property. This liability can apply to public or private property, including a car, house, realty, or building—essentially anything the owner can prove is theirs.

If you do not possess liability insurance, it is highly likely you will be personally responsible for the entire cost of the damage. Even if you do have liability insurance, the insurance company may decide to exempt coverage for an accident that involves driving under the influence. Therefore, it is vital to review your policies before making a claim. In situations like this, a Youngstown DUI attorney can help navigate insurance complexities and protect your interests.

Find the Best Youngstown OVI Lawyer in Ohio

The Youngstown Criminal Law Group is the premier destination for finding a highly experienced Youngstown criminal lawyer. Our team will listen to your account of events and create a robust defense designed to minimize your penalties. For more details call us at 412.387.6901 to schedule a consultation, contact us today.