Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) in Ohio is not limited to alcohol or illicit drugs—it also includes driving under the influence of prescription drugs. Prescription Drug OVI refers to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by legally prescribed medications that affect your ability to drive safely. Even when taken as prescribed, certain medications can impair judgment, coordination, or reaction times, leading to impaired driving charges.
Cincinnati Prescription Drug OVI Defense Attorney
A Prescription Drug OVI charge can have long-term consequences, including a criminal record, higher insurance premiums, and restrictions on driving privileges. The Wieczorek Law Firm works to defend clients charged with prescription drug and OVI crimes. They will ensure that you are well informed at every stage, and will explain all of the steps required to move forward. The Wieczorek Law Firm, LLC, led by Mark Wieczorek serves all of Ohio, including Hamilton County, Butler County, Clermont County, Brown County, Highland County, Clinton County, Preble County, Scioto County, Greene County, Montgomery County, and Warren County, and Southern Ohio.
They have vigorously defended clients against charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony charges. Call today at (513)-317-5987 for your free case evaluation.
Information Center for Prescription Drug OVI
- What is Prescription Drug OVI?
- Penalties
- Defenses
- Additional Resources
- Hire an Attorney for Prescription Drug OVI
What is Prescription Drug OVI in Ohio?
Under Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19, it is illegal to operate a vehicle if you are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. This includes prescription medications that affect your mental or physical ability to operate a vehicle safely. The statute states as follows:
(A)(1) No person shall operate any vehicle, streetcar, or trackless trolley within this state, if, at the time of the operation, any of the following apply:
(a) The person is under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination of them.
Medications commonly associated with Prescription Drug OVI charges include:
- Painkillers (e.g., Oxycodone, Hydrocodone)
- Anti-anxiety medications (e.g., Xanax, Valium)
- Sleep aids (e.g., Ambien, Lunesta)
- Muscle relaxants
- Antidepressants
- Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin)
Evidence may include:
- Blood or urine tests showing the presence of prescription drugs.
- Field sobriety test results.
- Testimony from law enforcement about the driver’s behavior or appearance.
- The driver’s admission to taking prescription medication.
Penalties for Prescription Drug OVI in Ohio
Penalties for Prescription Drug OVI are similar to those for alcohol-related OVI and depend on prior convictions and the circumstances of the offense.
First Offense:
- Jail time: Up to 6 months
- Fines: Up to $1,075.
- License suspension: Up to 3 years.
- Potential enrollment in a driver intervention program.
Second Offense (within 10 years):
- Jail time: Up to 6 months.
- Fines: Up to $1,625.
- License suspension: Up to 7 years.
- Mandatory ignition interlock device.
Third Offense (within 10 years):
- Jail time: Up to 1 year.
- Fines: Up to $2,750.
- License suspension: Up to 12 years.
- Potential vehicle forfeiture.
Defenses Against Prescription Drug OVI
Defending against a Prescription Drug OVI charge may involve several defenses:
- Lack of Impairment: Arguing that the medication did not impair the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle.
- Improper Testing Procedures: Challenging the validity of blood or urine tests due to mishandling or improper administration.
- Medical Necessity: Demonstrating that the medication was taken as prescribed and did not lead to impairment.
Additional Resources
- Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19: Prescription Drug OVI refers to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by legally prescribed medications that affect your ability to drive safely.
- Drug Crimes: Drug crimes in Ohio can include a variety of offenses that range from misdemeanors to felony charges.
Hire a Lawyer for Drug Manufacturing in Cincinnati
If you have been charged with a prescription drug OVI in Ohio, contact the Wieczorek Law Firm today. The Wieczorek Law Firm can protect your rights and advocate for you. We have extensive experience defending against these types of charges and will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome.
The Wieczorek Law Firm, LLC, led by Mark Wieczorek serves all of Ohio, including Hamilton County, Butler County, Clermont County, Brown County, Highland County, Clinton County, Preble County, Scioto County, Greene County, Montgomery County, and Warren County, and Southern Ohio. Call us today at (513)-317-5987 for your free case evaluation.