Toledo, Ohio — A new law aimed at increasing penalties for repeat drunk drivers who cause fatal accidents is set to go into effect in Ohio. The legislation, known as Liv’s Law, introduces tougher sentencing and fines for individuals convicted of aggravated vehicular homicide and other related offenses. It is named in memory of Olivia Wright, a 22-year-old woman who was tragically killed by a drunk driver near Ashville, Ohio, in 2020.
The Fight for Justice
Liv’s Law is the culmination of years of advocacy by the family of Olivia Wright, who has tirelessly worked to strengthen Ohio’s laws regarding repeat offenders. After the devastating loss of their daughter, Wright’s family pushed for legislation that would hold drunk drivers accountable and prevent similar tragedies from occurring. Their efforts have led to a bill that not only increases prison sentences for repeat offenders but also raises fines and extends driver’s license suspensions.
Key Provisions of Liv’s Law
Under the new law, courts will now have the authority to impose enhanced sentences on individuals convicted of aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, or involuntary manslaughter when those crimes are linked to prior OVI (Operating a Vehicle under the Influence) offenses.
The law introduces a tiered system that increases mandatory minimum sentences based on the number and nature of previous offenses. For example, a first-time offense related to aggravated vehicular homicide will carry a mandatory prison sentence of 2 to 8 years. However, if the offender has one prior OVI conviction within the past 20 years, the sentence will increase to 6 to 20 years. Those with two or more prior convictions for OVI-related offenses could face 10 years to life in prison.
Increased Fines and License Suspensions
In addition to harsher sentencing, Liv’s Law also raises the maximum fine for aggravated vehicular homicide involving OVI to $25,000. Fines for other OVI-related offenses are similarly increased under the new law. For instance, a first-time OVI conviction will now carry a minimum fine of $565, up from the previous $375. Repeat offenders will face significantly higher fines, with second-time offenses resulting in a $790 minimum fine, and third-time offenses carrying a $1,275 minimum fine.
The law also extends the duration of driver’s license suspensions for those convicted of OVI offenses. Under the new provisions, a first-time OVI offender will have their license suspended for 1 to 5 years (up from the previous 1 to 3 years). A second-time offender will face suspensions ranging from 2 to 10 years, while a third-time offender could have their license suspended for up to life.
A Strong Message Against Drunk Driving
Supporters of the bill, including members of Olivia Wright’s family, see the law as an important step toward reducing the number of deaths caused by drunk driving in Ohio. By increasing penalties for repeat offenders, advocates hope to send a strong message that drunk driving will not be tolerated and that those who repeatedly endanger others on the road will face severe consequences.
The law’s passage is seen as a victory for victim’s rights advocates and a testament to the power of persistent legislative advocacy. It also signals Ohio’s commitment to addressing the ongoing issue of impaired driving and its devastating consequences.
As Liv’s Law comes into effect, Ohio residents and lawmakers alike will be watching closely to see its impact on reducing drunk driving fatalities and holding offenders accountable for their actions.