N You Get A Dui On A Bicycle
Many people believe that riding a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is legal because it is not a motor vehicle. However, this is not true in all states. In fact, in some states, you can be charged with a DUI on a bicycle. In this article, we will discuss the laws surrounding bicycling under the influence and what to do if you are charged with a DUI on a bicycle.
What is a DUI?
A DUI, or driving under the influence, is a criminal offense that occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% in most states. If a person is stopped and found to have a BAC over the legal limit, they can be charged with a DUI.
Can You Get a DUI on a Bicycle?
As mentioned earlier, the laws regarding bicycling under the influence vary by state. In some states, bicyclists are subject to the same DUI laws as motor vehicle drivers. This means that if a bicyclist is stopped and found to be under the influence, they can be charged with a DUI.
In other states, however, the laws are different. For example, in California, a person cannot be charged with a DUI on a bicycle. However, they can still be charged with public intoxication if they are riding a bicycle while under the influence.
If you are unsure about the laws in your state, it is best to consult with a DUI attorney. They can provide you with more information about the specific laws in your area and what to do if you are charged with a DUI on a bicycle.
What are the Consequences of a DUI on a Bicycle?
If you are charged with a DUI on a bicycle, the consequences can vary depending on the state and the circumstances of your case. In some states, the penalties for a DUI on a bicycle are similar to those for a DUI in a motor vehicle. This can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
In other states, the penalties may be less severe. For example, in Colorado, a bicyclist who is charged with a DUI will have their case heard in traffic court rather than criminal court. The penalties can still include fines and community service, but there is no risk of jail time.
What Should You Do if You are Charged with a DUI on a Bicycle?
If you are charged with a DUI on a bicycle, it is important to take the situation seriously. Even if the penalties are less severe than a DUI in a motor vehicle, a conviction can still have lasting consequences.
The first step is to hire a DUI attorney who has experience with cases involving bicycles. They can review the specifics of your case and provide you with advice on how to proceed.
You should also gather any evidence that may help your case. This can include witness statements, photos or videos, and any other documentation that may be relevant.
Finally, it is important to be honest with your attorney about what happened. They can only help you if they have all of the information.
The Bottom Line
While the laws regarding bicycling under the influence vary by state, it is important to take the situation seriously if you are charged with a DUI on a bicycle. The consequences can still be severe, and it is important to have an experienced DUI attorney on your side.
Remember to always ride your bicycle responsibly and never operate it while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.