LIMA, Ohio (AP) — What many drivers once knew as DUI, or driving under the influence, has been known as OVI — operating a vehicle impaired — in Ohio since 2004. However, law enforcement officials say many motorists still do not fully understand what the updated law entails.
The change from DUI to OVI broadened the scope of impaired driving offenses. The word “operating” extends beyond simply driving down the road. It includes being in the driver’s seat with the ability to move the vehicle, even if the vehicle is not in motion.
Meanwhile, “impaired” is no longer limited to alcohol consumption. It can include impairment from drugs, distracted driving, or other activities that reduce a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle.
Recent updates to Ohio’s distracted driving laws have further expanded what may qualify as impaired operation. Texting while driving, using an electronic device, consuming drugs before or while driving, and even activities such as eating or applying makeup behind the wheel can result in citations.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported a significant rise in distracted driving enforcement at its Lima Post. From 2024 to 2025, the post recorded a 217% increase in distracted driving enforcement actions.
Those cases included two variations of impaired driving citations: an electronic device violation and a combined impaired driving citation.
Lt. Nick Boes of the Lima Post said drivers can face an enhancement charge if distracted driving is observed during a lawful traffic stop.
“We have an enhancement charge, which means if we have other probable cause to stop you — for your speed, a traffic violation, or a stop sign — and you’re on your phone, eating, putting on makeup in the mirror, or whatever it may be, you can also be charged with an enhancement penalty,” Boes said.
Boes noted that in some cases, drivers may have the opportunity to have the enhancement penalty dismissed by completing an approved online educational course.
Officials continue to urge drivers to remain focused and avoid distractions behind the wheel, emphasizing that impairment can take many forms under Ohio law.
