Understanding OH Driver Responsibility Laws

Many states including Michigan, Texas, New Jersey and New York have adapted Driver Responsibility Laws.  These laws were established to promote safe driving, prevent fatal accidents, and produce a viable revenue stream for the respective state governments.

Financial Responsibility Law in Ohio

Though the state of Ohio does not currently have a Driver Responsibility Law it does have a Financial Responsibility Law.  This law make is it illegal to drive a motor vehicle, in the state of Ohio, without insurance or other proof of financial responsibility.  As a driver in the state of Ohio, it is important that you are familiar with the Financial Responsibility Law and how it affects you. 

Verification of Proof of Financial Responsibility

The law requires financial responsibility at a minimum of $12,500 for bodily injury or death of an individual in a single accident.  Financial responsibility must also be insured for a minimum of $25,000 for bodily injury to or death of two or more individuals in a single accident.  Finally, $7,500 must be insured for damage to any property in a single accident.

Ohio's Financial Responsibility Law also requires that every applicant for the registration of an automobile maintains proof of financial responsibility and will continue to do so as long as they operate the motor vehicle.  It also requires that every applicant for a driver's license signs a statement which indicates that the applicant can currently provide proof of financial responsibility.

How to Provide Proof of Financial Responsibility

When a law enforcement officer requests financial responsibility proof and the motorist is unable to provide adequate proof, they are given a notice to provide the courts with such proof.  Proof of financial responsibility can be provided by:

• Sending financial responsibility proof to the BMV upon request
• Bringing financial responsibility proof to a traffic court appearance
• Sending a copy of financial responsibility when paying subsequent fine

Failure to provide proof of financial responsibility will begin the license suspension process with the DMV. A further failure to respond to the DMV’s Notice of Suspension will lead to the suspension of both driving and registration privileges even if the individual did in fact have the proper insurance.

• Auto Accidents
• Common Injuries fron Auto Accidents
• Common Misconceptions about Auto Accident Litigation

If you are in need of legal counsel regarding driver responsibility or an auto accident in the state of Ohio, contact Freking & Betz, LLC, today at 513-721-1975, or email us for an initial free consultation.