Traffic Stops & Police Investigations
What Happens During an OVI Traffic Stop?
An Ohio OVI investigation often begins before an officer ever asks a driver to step out of the vehicle. The reason for the traffic stop, the officer’s observations, what the driver says, and what happens during the roadside investigation can all become important evidence in an OVI case.
This page explains how OVI traffic stops and police investigations work, what officers are looking for, and how the circumstances surrounding the stop may affect the case.
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Key Things to Know
A quick overview of what matters during an OVI traffic stop and roadside investigation.
The Stop
An officer generally needs a lawful basis to stop a vehicle.
Officer Observations
What the officer observes before and after the stop can become evidence in the OVI case.
Video Evidence
Dash camera and body camera video may provide important evidence about what actually occurred during the investigation.
Explore This Topic
Explore related topics to learn more about what happens during an OVI investigation and how the officer’s observations, testing, and evidence may affect the case.
OVI Pocket Guide
The essential quick-reference for an Ohio OVI stop.
Keep the OVI Pocket Guide on your phone before you ever need it. It explains what we generally recommend in every situation, including police questioning, field sobriety tests, searches, chemical testing, and what to do if you are arrested.
Save it to your phone. Keep it available when you need it.
Experienced Ohio OVI Defense Attorney
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The goal is straightforward: create a plan you understand, make sure the documents work together, and give you confidence that your affairs are organized if something happens to you.
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Explore OVI Defense
Explore the major areas of Ohio OVI defense, from the court process and police investigations to field sobriety testing, chemical testing, license issues, and defense strategies.
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