As we head on into the upcoming Labor Day weekend, it’s a good time to remind drivers that there will be an enhanced police presence on the roads and interstates this holiday weekend.
Certainly, some accidents may be unavoidable, but the one type of crash that is 100% preventable is one related to a motorist’s alcohol consumption.
Why it matters now
Labor Day is a holiday long associated with drinking alcoholic beverages. Whether it’s one last hurrah on the river or at the camp, Ohioans love to throw a good party. And that’s fine, as long as they don’t drink and drive.
For those who do, these statistics may be sobering. Over Labor Day weekend 2023 — the last year for which statistics are available — 511 lives were snuffed out in alcohol-related collisions.
OVI arrests are serious
Don’t dismiss an arrest for operating a vehicle impaired. It’s a serious matter that must be carefully and strategically addressed when crafting a legitimate defense to the charges. For some workers in certain professions, an OVI arrest can result in their dismissal from their jobs and possibly an industry ban.
Keep in mind these pointers
If you get arrested for OVI, immediately announce your intentions to invoke your Constitutional rights against self-incrimination until you have had a chance to confer with your defense counsel.
Never resist arrest. It will only worsen a bad situation. Remain cooperative without answering any of the police officers’ questions. Complying at the scene reduces the chances of police escalation after an arrest on suspicion of OVI.