Can you get a DUI on a bicycle? DUI accusations are serious in Utah. DUI drivers run the risk of losing control of their vehicles, endangering both themselves and other road users. Some people might be surprised to learn that Utah’s DUI laws apply to much more than just motor vehicles. The short answer to the question “can you get a DUI on a bike?” is yes. Because Utah’s DUI law is written to apply to any mode of transportation or vehicle, it is possible to receive a DUI while riding a bike.
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Get A Dui While Riding A Bike
Our intention in providing you with this information was to help you better understand Ohio’s OVI and DUI laws as they relate to bicycles. Even though we sincerely hope you never need it, we do so in the hopes that it will help you understand how to handle an OVI or DUI charge as a cyclist. If the unfortunate happens, read on to learn how to handle the situation.
You don’t need to go through this process alone if you have been charged with a DUI or OVI while cycling and still have questions. For expert understanding and guidance in your case, consult with an experienced DUI/OVI attorney today. Give us a call right away to schedule a case consultation.
DUI & Cycling Issues
DUIs and cyclists are murky together. Although many states treat bikes as vehicles for the purposes of things like DUI, the reality is that a cyclist who is drunk will generally cause a lot less havoc than a driver who is drunk.
Read about: How Long Does It Take To Bike A Mile? The Answer Is… – Bike Your Best
Additionally, drunk cyclists are involved in fewer accidents than drunk drivers. As a result, advocates often argue that there should be a separate body of law that concerns itself purely with biking under the influence (or BUI) as opposed to either ignoring it or classifying it as DUI.
A few states have made steps towards this, but for the time being, drunk cyclists are either treated as DUIs or are perhaps stopped by police officers and given a ride to a safe place with no real consequences to contend with.
This should not be interpreted as a pass for riding a bike while intoxicated. With intoxicated cyclists, the likelihood of accidents and injuries increases, and it’s much simpler to be hit by a car or run over a pedestrian.
Additionally, if police believe you to be a danger to others nearby, they may impound your bike, pull you off the road, or take other action to prevent you from cycling.
When Someone Who Is Cycling Be Accused Of Dui Or Dwi
Today, there are many new laws designed to safeguard cyclists on public streets from drivers. As a result, cyclists are also subject to laws that include other safety precautions. A person may still be charged with DUI or DWI even though they are following the state’s regulations regarding bicycle safety.
If a police officer stops you because they think you are driving while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs, there will be serious financial repercussions and in some cases, you may even have to serve time in jail. The bottom line is that public intoxication is a misdemeanor criminal offense that most police officers will strictly enforce if you are riding your bike outside in a public area.
Furthermore, getting convicted of any DUI, or DWI offense today can affect your life and future in ways many people do not first realize until after the fact.
Ride A Bike Under The Influence Of Drugs / Alcohol Problems
A cyclist using any of these substances is more likely to operate their bike dangerously because each person will respond to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication differently. A person who decides to ride a bike home after having one or more drinks is taking a risk for their safety.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that even though a bicycle isn’t operated in the same way as a car, a drunk cyclist can still cause a serious accident. Cars that swerve out of the way to avoid hitting a drunk cyclist on the road risk injuring both the cyclist and other road users.
Cyclists Safety Tips
There are various ways cyclists can practice safe biking and not be fined:
- Wear a bike helmet that satisfies the CSA, ANSI, ASTM, or SNELL B-95 safety standards. Keep an eye on it over time to make sure the helmet will keep you safe.
- Make sure your bicycle has reflectors so that others can see you.
- Dress in a way that is visible.
- When driving, always obey the traffic laws.
- Whenever possible, use the bike lanes.
- Because cars don’t always follow the right-of-way rule for cyclists, use hand signals and perform shoulder checks before turning.
- To prevent running into or being struck by an open door, keep a distance of one meter between you and any parked cars.
DUI Penalties Could be Severe
If someone is convicted of a DUI in the state of Utah, the penalties could be severe. For instance, a person convicted of a felony DUI in the state of Utah may be sentenced to up to five years in prison as well as fines totaling more than $2,800. Those found guilty of a felony DUI must then finish a drug or alcohol screening program and adhere to additional treatment recommendations. Both a person’s personal and professional lives could be irreparably harmed by this conviction. For this reason, everyone must rely on an experienced DUI lawyer in Utah who will fight for the rights of his or her clients.
Final Words
In conclusion, the question, “Can you acquire a DUI riding a bicycle? ” has a negative response. However, there may be repercussions for any drinking in public, and if you’re riding a bike with a motor attached, you may now technically be operating a “motor vehicle” as that term is defined by the Criminal Code!
