Vehicular Assault in Carrollton
Vehicular assault and aggravated vehicular assault are serious legal charges in Ohio. If you’re charged with any of these offenses, you may face:
- Jail time
- Significant fines
- Loss of your driver’s license
- Points on your driver’s license
- Disqualification of your CDL
- A permanent criminal record
- Job loss and economic challenges
- Potential civil liability lawsuits
- Increased insurance premiums
While some car accidents might seem minor, the consequences can escalate if law enforcement believes that you were speeding, driving recklessly, or under the influence. These situations are deeply serious and demand legal intervention. That’s why it’s essential to consult with a Carrollton OVI lawyer from Youngstown Criminal Law Group.
Turn to Youngstown Criminal Law Group for Help
Our experienced attorneys, including those specializing in Carroll County cases, work tirelessly to reduce or dismiss your charges. Our Carrollton criminal lawyer will guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Vehicular Assault Vs. Aggravated Vehicular Assault
Under Ohio Rev. Code 2903.08, vehicular assault involves causing serious harm to another person or an unborn child, particularly if the incident resulted from speeding or reckless driving. However, if you’ve been accused of operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) and causing physical harm to someone, it is classified as aggravated vehicular assault—a more severe charge.
The term “vehicle” in this context applies to a wide range of transportation methods, including cars, bikes, trucks, boats, and planes.
Penalties for Vehicular Assault
First Degree Misdemeanor
If you injure someone or an unborn child while driving in a posted construction zone, it’s classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties include:
- Jail time of 7 to 180 days
- Fines up to $1,000
Fourth Degree Felony
This charge applies if you were driving in a construction zone and have prior convictions for vehicular assault or other traffic-related violations. Consequences include:
- Jail time of 6 to 18 months
- Fines up to $5,000
Third Degree Felony
If you have a suspended license, prior convictions of vehicular assault, or traffic-related deaths, or if you failed to stop at the accident scene, you may face third-degree felony charges. This can result in:
- Jail time of 12 to 60 months
- Fines up to $10,000
License Suspension
- Conviction for reckless driving or speeding that led to injury can result in a license suspension for 1 to 5 years.
- If you have a prior conviction of vehicular assault or other traffic-related charges, your license could be suspended for 2 to 10 years.
Penalties for Aggravated Vehicular Assault
Aggravated vehicular assault is always a felony offense.
Third Degree Felony
When operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) and causing injury, you may face:
- Jail time of 12 to 60 months
- Fines up to $10,000
Second Degree Felony
This applies when there are prior convictions for vehicular assault, aggravated vehicular assault, traffic-related deaths, or multiple OVI/DUI convictions. The penalties include:
- Jail time of 2 to 8 years
- Fines up to $15,000
License Suspension
- For first convictions, your license may be suspended for 2 to 10 years.
- With prior traffic-related death convictions, the suspension increases to 3 years to life.
Importance of a Carrollton OVI Lawyer
When faced with these serious charges, a Carrollton criminal lawyer from Youngstown Criminal Law Group can be your best advocate. Our legal team will meticulously examine the evidence and craft a strong defense tailored to your case.
The prosecution has a high burden of proof, and our lawyers are prepared to challenge every aspect. With our attorneys’ knowledge of Ohio traffic laws and Carroll County regulations, we’ll ensure you’re equipped to get the best possible outcome.
Contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group
Are you facing vehicular assault or aggravated vehicular assault charges? Don’t take on this battle alone. Get in touch with Youngstown Criminal Law Group for professional legal support. Call us (330) 992-3036 today for a free consultation and speak to an experienced Carrollton OVI lawyer about your case.