Fleeing and Eluding

Fleeing and Eluding Cases With Youngstown OVI Lawyer

Driving under influence or DUI has its own consequences. But when the offender or the alleged offender doesn’t comply with the order of stopping or at the signal given by the police officer, he or she might be charged with Fleeing and Eluding additionally along with the charges of OVI. This might result in more serious penalties than regular cases of DUI.

The case is generally of a misdemeanor. But in some situations, this can make the alleged crime of felony. The prosecution will try to use the fleeing and eluding charges to prove that the driver was already aware that he or she was committing a crime by driving under the influence.  If the motorist has a suspended license or an outstanding warrant, he or she is more likely to flee, and that the prosecution will prove that easily.

However, there can be some other justifiable reasons too for the driver not stopping the car at the signal or after getting the order. It can be for personal safety concerns, especially when the officer is not in uniform or the vehicle used by the police is not marked. Weather can be another factor that might prevent the driver not to see or hear the signal or the order.

Youngstown Criminal Lawyer for Fleeing and Eluding

If you or your loved ones have been charged with such cases and you have a long session of harassment waiting for you, then come to us at Youngstown Criminal Law Group. We are one of the best places where you can find the best Youngstown OVI Lawyer who will be able to fight your case and bring justice.

The Charges for Fleeing and Eluding in Ohio

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2921.331, fleeing and eluding is considered to be a first-degree misdemeanor. Failure to comply with the signal or order from any police officer who is authorized to control, direct or regulate traffic is a serious offense.

Failure to comply with the orders becomes a fourth-degree felony if the offender flees just after the commission of a felony. This crime can be a third-degree felony for the following reasons.

• The driver and his or her operation of the vehicle has caused physical damage for any person or property
• The driver and his or her operation of the vehicle have posed a substantial risk to a person or a property

To deal with this case, you will need the assistance of an expert Youngstown OVI Lawyer. And Youngstown Criminal Law Group is the place where you can find the best Youngstown Criminal Lawyer to defend you.

While dealing with the case, the court will consider the following factors,

• The distance and duration of the pursuit
• The rate of driving speed at which the offender tried to flee from the scene
• If the offender ignored to stop at traffic lights or stop at signals, at the time of the pursuit
• The number of signals, signs, or traffic lights the offender failed to stop at during the pursuit
• If the offender kept driving without the vehicle lights even when it was necessary to keep the lights of the vehicles on
• If the offender has committed a moving violation at the time of pursuit and the number of times of the violation
• Other misconducts from the offender’s end that can constitute a serious offense

Penalties in Case of Failure to Comply

Even when the OVI case is dismissed, the alleged offender can be charged with fleeing and eluding. If the offender fails to comply then it can add to six points in the driving record of the driver and cause increased insurance rates.

Also, fleeing and eluding can increase suspicion for driving privileges. Misdemeanor or failure to comply can cause a suspension for six months to three years. In case the felony conviction is proved, the driver’s license can get suspended for three years for the whole life.

Along with that, the following sentences can be issued:

• First-Degree Misdemeanor — Up to 180 days of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000;
• Fourth-Degree Felony — Up to 18 months of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000; or
• Third-Degree Felony — Up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.

An experienced Youngstown OVI Lawyer can help you deal with the consequences of the charges and help you in defense.

Find a Youngstown OVI Lawyer for Your Case

Youngstown Criminal Law Group understands your predicament. Our Youngstown Criminal Lawyer is experienced to defend you in the court and help you gain justice. For a free consultation, connect with us today.