In What States Can you Get a DUI on a Bike?

From this article, you'll learn the answer to the question "can you get a DUI on a bike?" for different states.
By
John Watson
John Watson
Writer
John is an experienced cycling enthusiast and a great asset when it comes to writing skills. He's a Bachelor of Arts and a talented journalist. John is in charge of our blog read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Jessica Kingston
Jessica Kingston
Expert Consultant
Jessica is our expert consultant on all things connected to biking - gear, technique, you name it. Being a pro cyclist in the past, she knows exactly how things work in and read more
Last updated: August 11, 2023
Bike The Site is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

In recent years, there has been an increase in the purchase of bikes in the United States of America, and like that, more and more people have owned a pair of wheels. Bicycles have practically become alternate vehicles for people these days, and as long as you have one, you can get anywhere.

People may be wondering how can you get a DUI on a bike. The same DUI laws that apply to those with cars apply to cyclists, and it is possible as you will be charged with a DUI if you’re moving any vehicle while intoxicated. Please read through this article as we explain how DUIs work for bikers.

The Definition of DUI

In What States Can you Get a DUI on a Bike?

The term, DUI, is an abbreviation that refers to when individuals are driving under the influence of alcohol and any other intoxicating substances. It can be said to be a crime or the act of moving a vehicle while feeling the effects of alcohol or drugs.

In most states in the United States of America, public intoxication is a serious crime, and if you’re caught, depending on how big the offense is, you will be persecuted and charged. A DUI Trusted Source DUI Laws by State | DuiDrivingLaws.org Summary of the DUI, DWI, OUI and similar drunk driving laws and penalties in all 50 states. dui.drivinglaws.org is issued when a person is caught intoxicated while operating a vehicle.

Blood Alcohol Concentration Levels

The blood alcohol concentration level of a person is fundamental in determining whether they will be issued a DUI. A person’s blood alcohol concentration levels depend on a variety of different things, but it is usually measured by the amount of alcohol that an individual has consumed over time.

It is vital to note that an individual’s blood alcohol concentration levels become higher when they have taken in alcoholic substances in a short time.

In America, if your blood alcohol concentration level is above 0.08% while you are driving a car, then you are likely to be prosecuted and charged with breaking the law. If your blood alcohol concentration levels are considerably higher than the accepted percentage and you’re driving a vehicle, you’re at a higher risk of an accident because as your levels increase, your vision becomes impaired, there’s a reduction in your coordination, and ultimately a lack of control.

Although people’s bodies differ and the way alcohol metabolizes in people’s body systems is never the same. The quickness at which alcohol metabolizes in a human's body system Trusted Source NIAAA Publications Alcohol is metabolized by several processes or pathways. The most common of these pathways involves two enzymes—alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). These enzymes help break apart the alcohol molecule, making it possible to eliminate it from the body. pubs.niaaa.nih.gov depends on three main factors, an individual’s body size and weight, the food they have eaten during that period, and also the amount of alcohol consumed at that moment.

More factors affect individuals’ blood alcohol concentration, including mood, the medication the person is on, fatigue levels, hormone levels, and many other factors. You may be wondering how to check a person’s blood alcohol concentration, but different tools can be used to do so.

The police especially make use of breathalyzers Trusted Source Breathalyzer test: How it works, what it measures, and accuracy What is a breathalyzer, and how does it work? Learn more about this device, including how it measures BAC and the different types. www.medicalnewstoday.com when they pull over civilians that are suspected to be under the influence. If you are passed the acceptable percentage, then you will be charged and arrested. Some refuse to take a breathalyzer test, and they’re punished severely for doing so. As long as a police officer has the proper evidence, which can be an apparent impairment that determines that you’re under the influence, they have full rights to use a breathalyzer on you. Adamancy to comply may lead to the arrest or seizure of your vehicle.

Checking a person’s blood alcohol concentration levels is viral, and it has been made easier by using the BACtrack C6 Keychain Breathalyzer. It is a well-trusted tool known for its reliability in getting the job done, and it also is very affordable.

To prevent your blood alcohol concentration level from going too high, you should avoid drinking before or during a bike ride. Instead, only drink when you have someone else to take you home.

Can You Get DUI on a Bike?

It has been established that recently, a bike has been termed as a vehicle, and there is a common question that arises, can you get a DUI on a bicycle? The answer is yes, you can. If you’re the owner of a bike and you are caught under the influence of an intoxicating substance while riding, then you are likely to be punished depending on the state you’re in.

Although not only your usual bikes can get you in trouble, every set of wheels that you’re riding can get you a punishment. People ride motorcycles, unicycles, and even tricycles, and they’re ignorant that they all can get a penalty. You may wonder, how can riding a tricycle get me a fine? Well, they all have the same laws. Here is a compilation of the best tricycles for adults, in case you’re searching for good wheels to cruise around with.

If you’re issued a DUI while riding your bike, your punishment depends on your state, as different states in America have their own rules and regulations concerning DUIs. Some states might not have DUI laws but remain cautious as there are still misdemeanor violations and charges for riding recklessly.

Drunk bike riding is dangerous and can lead to severe injury and damage to individuals who are geared up properly. Making use of the FROFILE Bike Helmet is a good choice for you as it guarantees your safety and it is also very comfortable to wear. Your safety should be your number one priority, and you should always make sure that you’re protected from every form of injury that can affect you and those around you.

So that answers the question, is it illegal to ride a bicycle drunk? Yes, it is, and riders should always be cautious when cruising on their wheels. Make sure you watch your intake and never ride drunk to avoid punishment.

Can You Get a DUI on an Electric Bike?

Electric bikes are bicycles that run on electricity, and the electric motor aids the bikes in propelling forward. They help with pedaling and give the extra boost when needed. Electric bikes can be used for different purposes, including recreational biking, racing, and even hunting. If you’re looking to purchase a bike that’s not only efficient and durable but also budget-friendly, then here is a list of the best electric bikes for hunting.

But the question, can you get a DUI on an electric bike, is similar to asking, can you get a DUI on a pedal bike? The answer to both questions is simple. You absolutely can. The laws surrounding ordinary bicycles are the same laws that guide the riding of electric bikes and any other set of wheels.

If you’re riding an electric bike, as long as you’re riding through a highway or anywhere exposed to the public, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will be charged as it is illegal. You face the risk of jail time and other charges.

What States Can you Get a DUI on a Bike: Chart

Different state governments prioritize the safety of their citizens, and some may say that drunk riding can’t cause any harm to the public, while some believe there’s no point in taking the risk.

Here is a diagrammatical representation of the states where you can be issued a DUI on a bike.

States Сan You Get a DUI on a Bicycle?
Alabama Yes
Alaska No
Arizona No
Arkansas No
California No, however, according to California laws, it is illegal to ride a bike under influence. It is not under vehicle DUI, still, bicyclists can have troubles.
Colorado Yes
Connecticut Yes
Delaware No, but riding a bike on the road under the influence can lead to punishment in case it creates a hazard.
District of Columbia Yes
Florida Yes
Georgia Yes
Hawaii Yes
Idaho Yes
Illinois No
Indiana Yes
Iowa No
Kansas No
Kentucky No, however, it is prohibited to ride an unmotorized vehicle under the influence
Louisiana No (Court ruled)
Maine No
Maryland Yes
Massachusets No
Michigan No
Minnesota No
Mississippi Yes
Missouri No
Montana No
Nebraska No
Nevada No
New Hampshire Yes
New Jersey No
New Mexico No
New York No
North Carolina Yes
North Dakota Yes
Ohio Yes
Oklahoma No
Oregon Yes
Pennsylvania Yes
Rhode Island Yes
South California No
South Dakota Yes, with bikes specified
Tennessee No
Texas Yes, but charges are rarely pursued
Utah Yes, but almost never enforced
Vermont No
Virginia No
Washington No (Court ruled). Police can withdraw the bike if a cyclist is dangerous to the public.
West Virginia No
Wisconsin No
Wyoming Yes

Different states in the US have their own laws guiding DUI, and they strictly follow them. As previously stated, the punishment depends on the state and the severity of your actions.

Although there are places where you can’t be given DUIs, you shouldn’t be carefree as you can be given misdemeanor charges.

Penalties for DUI on a Bike

If you are ever issued a DUI, the punishment that you serve depends on the state in which you reside. Different states have their own laws, and while you may face no consequences in some areas, in some, you may be fined a significant sum.

Regardless of your age or body stature, it would be best if you were careful of riding recklessly to avoid punishment and also doing damage to yourself. Tall people should make sure they make use of bikes their size. If you’re on the tall side and interested in bikes your size, here are the best bikes for tall men that we have gathered through reviews.

Final Thoughts

Biking is a natural activity that almost everyone participates in, and the best way to enjoy the activity is by doing it with a clear head. It would be best if you never were under the influence while riding to protect yourself and other people around you.

Never bother yourself with how can you get a DUI on a bike when you can easily avoid it in the first place. If you’re going to drink, make sure there’s a significant time difference before you get on your wheels.

So what are you waiting for? Go out there, get on your bike, feel the wind go through your skin, and enjoy biking without being scared of being punished by the police and other authorities.

References

1.
DUI Laws by State | DuiDrivingLaws.org
Summary of the DUI, DWI, OUI and similar drunk driving laws and penalties in all 50 states.
2.
NIAAA Publications
Alcohol is metabolized by several processes or pathways. The most common of these pathways involves two enzymes—alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). These enzymes help break apart the alcohol molecule, making it possible to eliminate it from the body.
3.
Breathalyzer test: How it works, what it measures, and accuracy
What is a breathalyzer, and how does it work? Learn more about this device, including how it measures BAC and the different types.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *