This week’s top stories in central Ohio include a detailed look at Ohio’s Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) laws, which apply not only to cars and motorcycles but also to bicycles, electric bikes, horse-drawn buggies, and even unconventional vehicles like streetcars and trackless trolleys. A 2024 court ruling confirmed that horse-drawn buggies qualify as vehicles under Ohio law, meaning operating one while impaired can result in an OVI charge. Additionally, Ohio has separate laws prohibiting boating under the influence, covering all types of vessels, including submarines.
In local news, several construction projects will impact driving routes in Franklin County and Columbus starting mid-September. Notably, Rager Road north of U.S. 33 will close permanently on September 23, with changes to traffic flow around U.S. 33 and Gender Road. Various overnight ramp and lane closures on Interstates 70 and 71 are scheduled between September 14 and 17, with detours in place to help motorists navigate the disruptions.
