Protect Your Driving Record: Ohio Failure to Control Points
Maintaining a clean driving record is crucial in Ohio, as points accumulated from traffic violations can significantly impact your insurance premiums, driving privileges, and even your employment opportunities. One common offense that can add points to your license is "failure to control," a violation that often stems from accidents or near misses. Understanding what constitutes failure to control in Ohio, how many points it carries, and how to mitigate its consequences is vital for protecting your driving record.
This article will explore the nuances of Ohio's failure to control law, providing you with the information you need to navigate this potentially costly violation.
What is Failure to Control in Ohio?
In Ohio, failure to control is typically charged when a driver loses control of their vehicle, resulting in an accident or a near-miss. It's not just about crashing; the key element is the loss of control. This can occur due to various factors, including:
- Adverse weather conditions: Driving too fast for icy, snowy, or rainy conditions can easily lead to a loss of control.
- Mechanical failures: A sudden tire blowout or brake failure could cause a driver to lose control, even if they're driving safely.
- Driver error: Distracted driving, speeding, aggressive driving maneuvers, or impairment due to alcohol or drugs are frequent causes of accidents resulting in failure to control charges.
- Road hazards: Unexpected obstacles like potholes or debris on the road can contribute to loss of control.
It's important to note that failure to control is often a contributing factor in accidents, rather than a standalone offense. The police report will detail the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the severity of the consequences can depend on the extent of the damage and any injuries involved.
How Many Points Does Failure to Control Carry in Ohio?
The number of points assessed for failure to control in Ohio varies depending on the circumstances of the incident. Generally, a failure to control citation will result in 2 points added to your driving record. However, more serious incidents involving property damage or injuries could lead to additional charges and points.
What Happens if I Get Failure to Control Points in Ohio?
Accumulating points on your Ohio driving record can trigger several consequences:
- Higher insurance premiums: Insurance companies use your driving record to assess risk. Points from failure to control will almost certainly lead to an increase in your auto insurance premiums.
- License suspension: If you accumulate a significant number of points within a specific timeframe, the state of Ohio may suspend your driving privileges.
- Increased scrutiny: Employers in certain professions, such as those involving commercial driving, may view a poor driving record negatively.
Can I Fight Failure to Control Charges in Ohio?
Challenging a failure to control charge requires a thorough understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident. You'll need to gather evidence, such as:
- Police reports: Review the police report carefully for accuracy and inconsistencies.
- Witness statements: If anyone witnessed the incident, obtain their statements.
- Photos and videos: Document any damage to vehicles or property.
- Mechanical inspection reports: If a mechanical failure contributed to the loss of control, get a report from a qualified mechanic.
Presenting a strong defense requires legal expertise. Consulting with a traffic attorney is highly recommended to explore all possible options.
What are the Penalties for Failure to Control in Ohio?
Penalties for failure to control in Ohio extend beyond points on your license. These can include:
- Fines: You'll likely face fines for the violation.
- Court costs: These costs cover administrative fees associated with your court appearance.
- Increased insurance premiums (as mentioned above): This is arguably the most long-lasting consequence.
The severity of the fines depends on the circumstances of the incident and any additional charges filed.
How Can I Avoid Failure to Control Charges?
The best way to avoid failure to control charges is to practice safe driving habits:
- Maintain your vehicle: Regularly inspect your tires, brakes, and other crucial components.
- Drive defensively: Anticipate the actions of other drivers and adjust your driving accordingly.
- Obey traffic laws: Adhere to speed limits and traffic signals.
- Avoid distractions: Put away your cell phone and avoid other distractions while driving.
- Drive according to weather conditions: Reduce your speed and increase your following distance in adverse weather.
By understanding Ohio's failure to control laws and practicing safe driving habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of accumulating points on your driving record and protect your driving privileges. Remember, a clean driving record saves you money and keeps you safe on the road.
