DUI Prevention Guide in Warren, Trumbull County, OH

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we champion the civil rights of every individual. It’s our mission to ensure our clients retain or regain those rights. While we do not condone drunk driving, we recognize that DUI charges may not always be justified. If you or a loved one faces a DUI charge, there may be ways to have these charges dismissed. Our team at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is committed to securing the justice you deserve.

Here’s a DUI prevention guide compiled by our expert Warren criminal lawyer. Take a moment to review it. Should you find yourself charged with a DUI, consult our Warren OVI lawyer immediately.

About Drunk Driving

Nearly one-third of traffic accidents result from drunk driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 10,000 people die each year due to drunk driving. This translates to one fatal crash every 53 minutes. Drunk driving incidents generate $199 billion in annual costs, all of which are preventable.

A significant portion of these accidents—about one-third—are caused by repeat offenders. Of these, 50% to 75% already have their licenses suspended.

Reports from Mothers Against Drunk Driving indicate that DUI incidents have declined since 1980. However, with numerous cases still occurring each year, it is essential to follow the guidelines below.

Prevention for Yourself

Driving under the influence is hazardous not only to others but also to you. Follow these tips to prevent such incidents:

• Designate a Sober Driver: If you’re out with friends, have someone stay sober to drive everyone home safely.
• Use Public Transport or Rideshares: If you’re going to a party or bar alone, take a cab or rent a car for multiple stops.
• Leave Your Car: If you end up drinking more than planned, leave your car and take a cab, bus, or train home. Retrieve your car later when you’re sober.

Signs That You Are Too Drunk

You don’t need to calculate your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) to know if you’re drunk. Visible signs include:

• Flushed skin
• Sweating
• Red, bloodshot eyes
• Double or blurred vision
• Loud or slurred speech
• Inability to walk straight
• Bumping into objects
• Difficulty signing your name

If you’re unsure about your condition, ask a friend, bartender, or waiter for their opinion. Remember, even without showing these signs, you could still be over the legal limit according to the Ohio Revised Code. If charged with a DUI, contact a Warren OVI lawyer immediately.

Use BAC Calculator Apps

For a more accurate assessment, use a BAC calculator app. These apps can provide a real-time estimate of your BAC based on your height, weight, and age.

For Your Companions

Driving sober is a responsibility you owe to yourself and those around you. Follow these steps to ensure safety:

• Volunteer as the Sober Driver: Offer to drive everyone home safely.
• Host Safe Parties: Provide mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Provide Transportation and Accommodation: Arrange rides or sleeping arrangements for guests who are too drunk to drive.

By following these guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of DUI incidents and contribute to safer roads for everyone. Stay informed, stay safe, and remember – if you need legal assistance, our Warren criminal lawyers are here to help.

Preventing Drunk Driving

You might have experienced situations where you offered to drive someone home because they were intoxicated, but they insisted on driving themselves. Here are some strategies to handle such scenarios effectively:

Avoid Confrontation

• Offer Alternatives: If they refuse your help, suggest options like calling a cab.
• Communicate Clearly: Remember, their judgment is impaired. Speak slowly and clearly.
• Express Concern: Explain that you care about their safety and don’t want them to get hurt.
• Offer a Place to Stay: Invite them to sleep over at your place.
• Involve a Friend: Ask another friend to reason with them.
• Contact Authorities: If all else fails, call law enforcement.

In case your friend ends up charged with a DUI, refer them to our Warren criminal lawyer for legal assistance.

How to Spot a Drunk Driver

To keep yourself safe on the road, be vigilant for signs of drunk driving. Watch out for the following behaviors:

Indicators of Drunk Driving

• Erratic Movement: Wavering and zigzagging across lanes.
• Abrupt Actions: Making sudden illegal turns.
• Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, swerving, and rapid acceleration.
• Unexplained Stops: Halting without any clear reason.
• Lane Misuse: Driving outside designated lanes.
• Near Misses: Nearly hitting objects or vehicles.
• Inconsistent Signals: Sending mixed driving signals.
• Traffic Signal Issues: Slow or no response to traffic lights.
• Headlight Problems: Driving at night with headlights off.
• Wrong-Way Driving: Moving on the wrong side of the road.

What to Do When You Spot a Drunk Driver

According to the Ohio Revised Code, you need to act quickly if you see a drunk driver to ensure everyone’s safety.

Safety Measures

1. Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
2. Avoid Signaling: Do not attempt to signal the impaired driver.
3. Take Note: If possible, note the car’s license plate, color, and model.
4. Call 911: Pull over safely and call 911 to provide necessary details.

Our Warren OVI lawyer at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is available to discuss your case and provide appropriate legal guidance for DUI incidents. Contact us today or call (330) 992-3036 for a detailed consultation.