At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we’ve represented numerous clients who have been involved in fatal crashes and have seen first hand the toll such crashes can take on a person’s life. Our experienced Columbus DUI attorneys know that no one wants to be in a position of unintentionally harming another person due to a DUI.
With new legislation in the works, it’s important to understand the proposed penalties for a first-time DUI.
DUI Fatalities Remain a Serious Problem in Ohio
Each year, the Ohio State Highway Patrol publishes a summary of crash statistics in Ohio in its annual report Ohio Traffic Crash Facts. Year after year, the report shows thousands of crashes resulting from drivers operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of medications, drug, or alcohol. Too often, these crashes result in severe injury or even fatality.
To address the problem of crashes due to DUIs, recent legislation has been proposed to require ignition interlock devices on all vehicles of DUI offenders. While proponents of the legislation see it as an important life-saving measure, others view the legislation as setting unnecessarily harsh penalties for those convicted of a first-time DUI.
What Is Annie’s Law? Understanding HB 388
In a recent step toward reform, the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 388, known as “Annie’s Law.” The bill is named in memory of Annie Rooney, a Cincinnati attorney who was tragically killed by a repeat drunk driver in 2013.
If passed, Annie’s Law would:
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Require ignition interlock devices for all DUI offenders—including first-time offenders
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Set a BAC threshold of .025 (less than half the legal limit) to start a vehicle
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Include GPS tracking and an in-car camera to monitor who is driving
These devices would prevent drivers from operating a vehicle if they fail a built-in breathalyzer test, significantly reducing the risk of repeat offenses.
Supporters vs. Critics of Annie’s Law
Proponents argue that ignition interlock devices are life-saving tools that should be used proactively—even after a first offense—to prevent further tragedies like Annie Rooney’s. They point to data showing reduced repeat offenses in states with stricter interlock requirements.
Opponents, however, believe the law is too harsh for first-time offenders, especially considering that current Ohio DUI laws already mandate interlocks for repeat convictions. They argue that most first-time DUI offenders do not reoffend, and that Annie’s Law may be overly punitive for individuals who made a one-time mistake.
What Are Ohio’s Current DUI Laws?
Under existing Ohio DUI statutes, here’s what the law currently mandates:
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Second or subsequent OVI convictions within 6 years:
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Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device
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First-time OVI offenders:
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May be eligible for limited driving privileges
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May be required to install an interlock as a condition of those privileges
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Length of interlock use varies depending on BAC level and whether the offense involved injury or aggravating circumstances
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This means that ignition interlocks are already part of Ohio law, but Annie’s Law seeks to make them mandatory across the board for all DUI convictions.
Facing a First-Time DUI in Ohio? LHA Is Here to Help.
Being charged with a first-time DUI can be a frightening experience, especially in cases where injury or fatality are involved. At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we’ve helped numerous individuals face their DUI charges and know first-hand the challenges faced by first-time DUI offenders.
Call for a Free DUI Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a DUI and are seeking representation, contact one of the experienced Columbus DUI attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates at (614) 500-3836 today.
Call Now (614) 500-3836