If you have received a ticket or have been charged with a crime involving a motor vehicle, the potential consequences are serious. You could lose your driving privileges, possibly be incarcerated, and suffer various other collateral consequences that can interfere with your life, job, and livelihood. A Cincinnati defense attorney at The Wieczorek Law Firm can review your case and explain your options. For a free and confidential evaluation of your traffic case, call us today.
- Overview of Traffic Crimes Legal Representation in Cincinnati Ohio
- Cincinnati Traffic Crimes Defense Attorney
- Common Ohio Traffic Violations
- Consequences for Traffic Violations
Cincinnati Traffic Crimes Defense Attorney
Many people who are facing tickets might consider just paying the ticket. However, this can have far-reaching consequences. An experienced traffic offense lawyers can help by:
- Reviewing the ticket or charges and explaining your legal options
- Fighting to have the case dismissed
- Finding errors or evidentiary issues that help convince a judge or prosecutor side with you
- Fighting to avoid an automatic license suspension at an ALS hearing
- Representing you in court, if necessary
Common Ohio Traffic Violations
Ohio Revised Code classifies traffic violations may involve offenses related to the operation of a motor vehicle, such as speeding or criminal actions, such as OVI. Some of the most common traffic violations in Ohio include:
- Driving without a license – Under Ohio Revised Code § 4510.12, driving without a valid driver’s license in Ohio occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle on public roads without having been issued a license by the state or with an expired, revoked, or suspended license. In Cincinnati, this offense is frequently cited during traffic stops and is classified as an unclassified misdemeanor on a first offense, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and possible community service or jail time. Repeat offenses can result in increased penalties and additional license suspensions.
- Driving on a suspended license – As stated in ORC § 4510.11, driving under a license suspension, regardless of the original cause is a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties in Cincinnati may include up to 180 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, and an extended suspension. Vehicles may also be immobilized or forfeited for repeat offenses, especially when related to DUI/OVI suspensions.
- Speeding – Speeding is governed under ORC § 4511.21, which prohibits driving at a speed greater than is reasonable or posted for road conditions. Cincinnati law enforcement frequently issues citations for exceeding posted limits, especially in school zones and on I-71 and I-75. Speeding violations are generally minor misdemeanors, but can escalate to higher misdemeanor levels if the driver has prior offenses or exceeds the speed limit by a large margin (e.g., 30+ mph over).
- Hit and Run – Per ORC § 4549.02, failing to stop after an accident involving property damage, injury, or death is a serious offense. A hit-and-run that results only in property damage is a first-degree misdemeanor, while accidents involving injury or death may be charged as felonies of the fifth to second degree, depending on the severity. In Cincinnati, leaving the scene can also lead to license suspension, civil liability, and significant jail or prison time.
- Reckless Driving – Reckless operation of a vehicle is defined by ORC § 4511.20, which prohibits operating a vehicle in “willful or wanton disregard” for the safety of persons or property. This broad statute includes weaving through traffic, excessive speeding, or aggressive driving. In Cincinnati, a first offense is a minor misdemeanor, while repeat violations can escalate to fourth- or third-degree misdemeanors, leading to increased fines, possible jail time, and points on the driver’s license.
- Street racing – Street racing, also referred to as “drag racing” or “street drag,” is prohibited under Ohio Revised Code §4511.251. The statute makes it illegal for any person to participate in speed contests, acceleration contests, or other unauthorized vehicle races on public roadways. This includes both drivers engaged in the race and individuals who aid or encourage the event. A first offense is typically classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, if street racing results in injury or property damage, the charge can be elevated to a felony. In Cincinnati and other urban areas, police often conduct targeted enforcement of street racing due to its significant risks to public safety.
- Unauthorized use of a vehicle – As stated in ORC § 2913.03, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle occurs when someone operates another person’s car without permission, even without intent to permanently deprive the owner. This is a first-degree misdemeanor if no theft is involved, but can be charged as a felony if the vehicle is removed from the state or kept for over 48 hours. In Cincinnati, police frequently prosecute this as a theft-adjacent offense, especially involving rental cars or borrowed vehicles not returned.
- Driving too slowly – Ohio law under ORC § 4511.22 prohibits drivers from operating at such a slow speed as to impede or block normal traffic flow, unless conditions (e.g., weather, construction) reasonably require reduced speed. In urban settings like Cincinnati, this can include slow driving in high-speed areas or inappropriate use of the passing lane. Violations are considered minor misdemeanors, typically resulting in a fine and points on the driver’s license.
- Running a stop sign – Failure to stop at a stop sign is a common violation under ORC § 4511.43(A). Drivers must come to a full stop before entering an intersection with a posted stop sign and yield to any cross-traffic. In Cincinnati, this is frequently enforced in residential neighborhoods and school zones. It is a minor misdemeanor carrying a fine and two points on the driver’s license.
- Traffic control violation – Under ORC § 4511.12, all drivers must obey official traffic control devices, including signals, lane markings, and posted signage. Failure to do so, such as running a red light or ignoring lane control signs, is a minor misdemeanor punishable by fines and points. Cincinnati uses red-light cameras and officer patrols to enforce this, especially at busy intersections like Central Parkway and Liberty Street.
- Failure to control the vehicle – Defined in ORC § 4511.202, this violation occurs when a driver loses control of a vehicle, resulting in an accident or dangerous movement. Common scenarios in Cincinnati include skidding off the road or crashing in inclement weather. It is a minor misdemeanor, but may carry civil liability and insurance penalties if property damage or injury occurs.
- Failure to yield – Failure to yield is addressed under several provisions, primarily ORC § 4511.41–44, depending on the situation (e.g., left turns, merging, emergency vehicles). In Cincinnati, failure to yield is a frequent cause of intersection collisions and pedestrian accidents. It is typically charged as a minor misdemeanor, but may result in higher charges if injury or death occurs.
- Failing to stop for a school bus – According to ORC § 4511.75, motorists must stop at least 10 feet from a school bus displaying flashing red lights and extended stop arm. Violations are considered serious and may result in a mandatory court appearance, a fine up to $500, and possible license suspension. In Cincinnati, school bus camera footage is often used as evidence.
- Following too closely – Tailgating or following too closely is prohibited under ORC § 4511.34, requiring drivers to maintain a “reasonable and prudent” distance based on speed, traffic, and conditions. Rear-end collisions in Cincinnati are often cited under this law. A violation is a minor misdemeanor, but civil liability may increase if an accident occurs.
- Lane violations – Ohio’s ORC § 4511.33 requires drivers to stay within marked lanes and change lanes only when it is safe and properly signaled. Lane violations include weaving, improper merging, or driving on lane dividers. In Cincinnati, they are frequently cited during crash investigations and are classified as minor misdemeanors, with two-point penalties on the driver’s record.
- Eluding and fleeing – Under ORC § 2921.331, fleeing or eluding a police officer after being signaled to stop is a first-degree misdemeanor for a nonviolent offense but escalates to a felony if it involves high-speed chases or risk of harm. In Cincinnati, such cases often result in multiple charges, including reckless driving or resisting arrest. Penalties may include jail time, license suspension, and vehicle forfeiture.
- Leaving the scene of an accident – Closely related to hit-and-run, ORC § 4549.021 makes it illegal to leave the scene of an accident without providing required information or assistance. Even minor fender-benders require the exchange of details. Penalties in Cincinnati range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the harm caused. A conviction may also result in a lengthy driver’s license suspension.
- Texting while driving – Texting or using a handheld device while driving is regulated under ORC § 4511.204 and expanded by recent distracted driving laws. As of 2023, Ohio treats most handheld device use while driving as a primary offense, allowing officers to stop and cite drivers without any other reason. Violations in Cincinnati can result in fines, points, and required driver education for repeat offenses.
- Grand theft auto – Car theft is classified under ORC § 2913.02, and taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent with intent to permanently deprive is typically charged as a felony of the fourth degree, but can rise to a third-degree felony if the vehicle’s value exceeds $7,500. Cincinnati police often pursue these cases through surveillance and license plate readers. Convictions may result in prison time, restitution, and permanent felony records.
- OVI – Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited by ORC § 4511.19. In Cincinnati, first-time OVI offenses carry mandatory license suspension, fines, up to six months in jail, and installation of an ignition interlock. Aggravating factors like high BAC (.17+), minors in the vehicle, or prior offenses can increase penalties substantially. Court-ordered treatment programs may be required as part of sentencing.
- Vehicular assault – Vehicular assault is defined in ORC § 2903.08 as causing serious physical harm to another while driving recklessly or under the influence. In Ohio, this is a fourth-degree felony (reckless operation) or third-degree felony (if OVI-related). Cincinnati prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, especially when the victim is a pedestrian or bicyclist. Penalties can include multiple years in prison, license suspension, and large fines.
- Vehicular homicide – Vehicular homicide, under ORC § 2903.06, applies when a person negligently or recklessly causes death while operating a vehicle. This includes driving under the influence or ignoring traffic signals. Charges can range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a second-degree felony, depending on circumstances. In Cincinnati, these cases often involve extensive accident reconstruction and carry penalties of up to 8 years in prison, lifetime license suspension, and civil wrongful death suits.
For any of these offenses, it is important to retain qualified Cincinnati criminal lawyer. Call us at (513) 317-5987 to learn more.
Consequences for Traffic Violations
Being convicted of a traffic offense could have many consequences, depending on the nature of the offense. Some may include:
- Points to your driving record – Driving offenses can result in points to your driving record. If you accumulate 12 points on your driving record within two years, your driver’s license can be suspended.
- Incarceration – Some offenses can result in incarceration. A misdemeanor offense can result in up to one year in jail. A first-degree felony can result in a prison sentence up to 11 years.
- A criminal record – Some offenses are considered serious crimes that can result in a criminal record that follows you around for years to come. Any prospective employer or landlord could find this information. Consider consulting an expungement attorney to clear your record.
- Fines – Fines can easily add up to thousands of dollars.
- Loss of driving privileges – Too many points can result in your driving privileges being suspended. Some offenses can result in an automatic suspension and ALS hearing separate from any criminal case.
- Increased auto insurance premiums – Your auto insurance rates will likely go up with any traffic ticket, offense, or accident you cause. This can add up to a substantial amount over the years.
- Financial penalties – You could face other financial penalties, including having to pay restitution to anyone who was injured in an accident, costs to have an ignition interlock device installed, and the requirement to attend drug and alcohol testing.
- Job loss – Depending on the nature of the offense, a conviction could result in the loss of your job or difficulty finding employment.
Call a Cincinnati Traffic Lawyer from Our Firm for Help
At The Wieczorek Law Firm, we provide the aggressive legal representation you need to protect your legal rights. Contact us today for a free case review.
