Legal Question in DUI Law in Ohio

Can a passanger who grabs the wheel be charged for dui?

My two friends were in a drunk drving accident. The driver was 23 and did not have a license. The passenger was 19 and it was his car that the 23 year old was driving. The 19 year old being drunk grabbed the steering wheel and they collided into the back of a parked car. There was one open beer and some full beers still in the car that both of them had been drinking. How much trouble are both of these guys looking at?


Asked on 4/05/09, 5:51 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bradley Miller Miller Law LLC

Re: Can a passanger who grabs the wheel be charged for dui?

It depends on what the police want to charge them with. One or both could be charged with OVI (DUI), open container, or another alcohol offense. The driver could be charged with driving without a valid drivers license. The passenger could be charged with allowing the other to drive without a license. They will also likely be ordered to pay for the damaged caused to the parked car.

Most likely your friends are looking at some serious traffic offenses, including possibly OVI. You should advise them to each talk to an attorney to discuss the situation and their options.

If you or either of your friends have additional questions or would like to discuss the situation further, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 4/05/09, 5:58 pm


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