If you have had an accident and been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in connection with the accident, you are facing some life changing DUI penalties in Ohio that could include a prison sentence and loss of your driver’s license once you are out of prison. In addition, if you are fortunate enough to regain your driving privileges, it is very likely that insurance rates will be extremely high.
If you injure someone in an automobile accident in connection with a DUI arrest, you may be charged with aggravated vehicular assault. This is generally charged as a third degree felony and carries with it a mandatory prison sentence. Sentencing range for third degree felonies is between one and five years. This can increase from a third degree felony to a second degree felony if any one of these circumstances are also in play:
- Driving under suspension at the time of the accident;
- Previous aggravated assault conviction or plea of guilty;
- Previous conviction or guilty plea for any traffic-related homicide, manslaughter, or assault;
- Three or more DUI convictions in the last six years;
- Two or more previous DUI convictions.
A second degree felony carries a two to eight-year prison sentence. In addition, an aggravated vehicular assault conviction carries a two to ten-year driver’s license suspension. Furthermore, if you have previous convictions for vehicular assault, any type of traffic-related homicide, manslaughter, or assault; or any traffic-related murder, felonious assault, or attempted murder, your driver’s license can be suspended for three years to life.
Need a DUI Defense Lawyer in Columbus, Ohio?
If you are in the situation of being charged with vehicular aggravated assault and DUI, you know the charges you are facing in this situation are extremely serious. Having an experienced, skilled, and trusted attorney on your side has never been more important.
If you’re facing DUI or OVI charges in connection with an injury accident in Columbus, Ohio, you need a highly qualified attorney who will review your case and create a strategy to either win the case or mitigate the potential damage to your record. The skilled, trusted legal representation at Probst Law Office offers the help you need to be sure you have the best representation possible in fighting DUI/OVI charges. Get the experience that you need and deserve when you hire Michael Probst as your attorney. Contact Michael today for your free consultation, or call now at at 614-349-4316.