Most Cincinnati area residents understand the importance of driving safely. They know that what they do behind the wheel can potentially affect their lives along with everyone else they meet on the road. But not everyone follows the rules and drunk driving continues to be a problem on Ohio roads.
What is drinking and driving?
Drinking and driving, known legally as “operating a vehicle while intoxicated” (OVI) in Ohio is a problem. Drivers who are over the age of 21, the legal limit is .08 BAC (blood alcohol concentration). Drivers who are under 21 have a legal limit of .02 BAC.
Fatal OVI crashes in Ohio
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol there were 529 fatal OVI-related crashes with 597 OVI-related fatalities in 2019. In 2018 there were 367 OVI-related fatal crashes with 402 OVI-related fatalities. That represents an astonishing 44% increase in fatal OVI-related crashes between 2018 and 2019. OVI-related fatal crashes made up more than 50% of all fatal crashes in Ohio in 2019.
Personal injury attorney
Despite these alarming statistics, drivers continue to drive on Ohio roads after they have been drinking. Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, over 60% of people will be involved in a crash with a drunk driver. Many of these accidents are serious, leading to the victim facing months and even years of medical care and emotional trauma.
If a family has been affected by a drunk driver, they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can visit the accident scene and interview witnesses and review the police report to help determine what happened and who is at fault. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, future medical expenses, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.