Traffic & Vehicular Crimes Defense Lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio
Experienced attorneys dedicated to protecting your rights in assault and battery cases.
Serious traffic charges in Ohio can lead to far more than points on your license. Allegations like vehicular homicide, reckless operation, hit-and-run, or driving under suspension can result in felony convictions, years in prison, and the loss of your license — sometimes for life. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our Cleveland criminal defense lawyers have over 30 years of experience defending clients in Cuyahoga County and throughout Northeast Ohio. We know how prosecutors build these cases, and we fight strategically to protect your rights, freedom, and future. If you’ve been accused, call right away for guidance and a confidential consultation.
Understanding Traffic & Vehicular Crimes in Ohio
Ohio law classifies traffic and vehicular crimes under several statutes:
- Vehicular Homicide (ORC §2903.06) – Causing death by negligent driving or a traffic violation (F4 or M1).
- Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (ORC §2903.06(B)) – Causing death while OVI-impaired, reckless, or driving under suspension (F1 or F2).
- Vehicular Manslaughter (ORC §2903.06(A)(4)) – Causing a fatal crash through a minor violation, such as failing to yield (M2 or F3).
- Reckless Operation (ORC §4511.20) – Driving with willful disregard for safety (M4 or M3).
- Hit-Skip / Hit-and-Run (ORC §4549.02) – Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death (F2 or F3).
- Driving Under Suspension (ORC §4510.11) – Operating a vehicle while your license is suspended (M1).
Prosecutors pursue these charges aggressively, especially when alcohol, drugs, or repeat offenses are alleged.
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Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.
How Traffic & Vehicular Crimes Are Prosecuted in Ohio
Evidence often includes:
- Police and accident reconstruction reports
- Blood alcohol and toxicology results
- Bodycam and dashcam footage
- Eyewitness and victim testimony
- Surveillance or traffic camera video
- Cell phone/GPS records and vehicle “black box” data
Cases may be escalated from misdemeanors to felonies when aggravating factors are present (impaired driving, prior OVI convictions, multiple victims).
Defense Strategies
Our firm investigates every angle to build the strongest possible defense. Common strategies include:
- Challenging the legality of the stop or arrest
- Questioning lab accuracy and test handling
- Disputing accident reconstruction findings
- Exposing constitutional violations by law enforcement
- Highlighting unreliable or inconsistent witness statements
- Negotiating reduced charges or diversion for eligible clients
We fight aggressively — but with strategy and precision — always focused on your best outcome.
Penalties for Traffic & Vehicular Crimes in Ohio
- Vehicular Homicide (M1/F4)
- Up to 180 days jail (M1) or 6–18 months prison (F4)
- Fines up to $5,000
- License suspension: 1–5 years
- Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (F1/F2)
- 2–11 years (F1) or 2–8 years (F2) in prison
- Fines up to $20,000
- Lifetime license revocation
- Vehicular Manslaughter (M2/F3)
- Up to 90 days jail (M2) or 1–5 years prison (F3)
- Fines up to $10,000
- License suspension: up to 3 years
- Reckless Operation (M4/M3)
- Up to 60 days jail
- Fines up to $750
- License points and higher insurance premiums
- Driving Under Suspension (M1)
- Up to 180 days jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Vehicle impoundment/immobilization
- Hit-Skip (F2/F3 if injury/death)
- 2–8 years in prison
- Fines up to $15,000
- License suspension/revocation
Call us today to begin building your defense.
Collateral Consequences
Beyond court sentencing, a conviction can cause:
- A permanent criminal record
- Loss of employment opportunities
- Professional license revocation
- CDL disqualification for commercial drivers
- Immigration issues, including possible deportation
- Civil lawsuits from victims or families
- Increased insurance premiums or cancellation
Why Choose Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A.?
At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we prioritize your rights and freedom. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized defense strategies that yield results.
Your Defense Starts Here
When facing criminal charges, having a dedicated and experienced defense team by your side is crucial. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we understand the stakes involved and are committed to building the strongest defense possible for you. Our team will work tirelessly to analyze every detail of your case and ensure your rights are protected.
We recognize that each case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to fit your specific situation. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complexities of criminal law, and we will guide you through every step of the legal process. With our support, you can feel confident in your defense and the choices you make.
Don’t leave your future to chance. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin crafting a robust defense strategy. We are here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the legal expertise you need to fight back against the charges.
Your freedom and reputation are on the line, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our commitment to you goes beyond just legal representation; we aim to be your trusted ally during this challenging time. Together, we will work towards the best possible outcome.
Take action now and let us help you reclaim control of your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your strongest defense.
Get Your Free Consultation Today
Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.
