Ohio § 2151.88
Full text of Ohio Ohio Revised Code § 2151.88, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2151.88.
(A) Except as provided in division (C) of this section, a person shall be immune from
civil liability for any damage resulting from the forcible entry of a motor vehicle
for the purpose of removing a minor from the vehicle if the person does all of the
following: (1) Determines the vehicle is locked or there is otherwise no reasonable method for the
minor to exit the vehicle. (2) Has a good faith belief that forcible entry into the vehicle is necessary because
the minor is in imminent danger of suffering harm if not immediately removed from
the vehicle and, based upon the circumstances known to the person at the time, the
belief is a reasonable one. (3) Has made a good faith effort to contact the local law enforcement agency, the fire
department, or a 9-1-1 operator prior to forcibly entering the vehicle. If contact is not possible prior to forcibly entering the vehicle, the person shall
make contact as soon as possible after forcibly entering the vehicle. (4) Makes a good faith effort to place a notice on the vehicle's windshield with the
person's contact information, the reason the entry was made, the location of the minor,
and the fact that the authorities have been notified. (5) Remains with the minor in a safe location until law enforcement or emergency responders
arrive. (6) Used not more force to enter the vehicle and remove the minor from the vehicle than
was necessary under the circumstances. (B) Nothing in this section shall affect the person's civil liability if the person attempts
to render aid to the minor in addition to what is authorized by this section. (C) A person shall not be immune from civil liability for any damage resulting from the
forcible entry of a motor vehicle for the purpose of removing a minor from the vehicle
if the person's actions constitute recklessness or willful or wanton misconduct with
regard to the forcible entry of the motor vehicle. (D) As used in this section, “ harm ” means injury or death.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio § 2151.88
What does Ohio Revised Code § 2151.88 cover?
Section 2151.88 is part of the Ohio Revised Code, the codified statutory law of Ohio. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Ohio § 2151.88?
A common citation format is "Ohio Revised Code § 2151.88" (Ohio). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Ohio law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Ohio official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Ohio attorney.
How does Ohio § 2151.88 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Ohio can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Ohio.