Public awareness initiatives have ensured that every American is aware of the risks associated with drunk driving during the past twenty to thirty years. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a severe crime that carries serious penalties, which may possibly include time in jail. But if you are operating a vehicle other than a car, can you still be charged with DUI?
Yes, is the simplest response to this question. The consequences for “driving intoxicated” when in charge of something other than a car or truck might range from trivial to severe, depending on what exactly you are operating. Even if you think you shouldn’t be charged with a crime for operating a specific kind of vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the police may disagree and charge you with a crime.
If you have been charged with DUI of any type of vehicle, contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to request a free legal consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney today.
It is illegal to bike on public streets while intoxicated
The California Vehicle Code, for instance, makes it illegal to ride a bike while under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. This means that you can face misdemeanor charges if you are stopped while riding your bicycle and the authorities suspect you are intoxicated.
However, a DUI while riding a bicycle won’t likely result in jail time, unlike a DUI involving a car, truck, or other vehicle. Instead, you’ll probably have to pay a $250 fine. If you break California’s zero tolerance statute while under 21, your license may be suspended.
It is illegal to operate any gas or battery powered vehicle while intoxicated
Additionally, if you drive a gas or battery-powered vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you could be charged. All kind of off-road vehicles are included in this, including golf carts, snowmobiles, dirt motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
You could be charged with a DUI, just like you would be if you were operating a car, truck, or SUV, if you are found operating any of these off-road vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with a blood alcohol content of.08 percent or higher, or if you are too intoxicated to drive with the care and caution of a reasonable sober person.
It is illegal to operate a boat while intoxicated
And finally, it’s illegal to boat while intoxicated. If you are caught operating a boat while intoxicated or high, you might spend up to a year in jail and pay a fine of up to $1,000. You could be subject to additional fines and penalties if you injured someone while intoxicated while boating.
You will require a DUI attorney with experience if you have been detained for a DUI involving a car, truck, bicycle, commercial vehicle, off-road vehicle, or boat. Chambers Law Firm, may help clients who have been accused of any DUI-related offense. We will vigorously defend you against the allegations while utilizing our abilities and knowledge to fight for your freedom and legal rights. Set up a free first appointment with our office by calling 714-760-4088 or emailing dchambers@clfca.comtoday to find out how we can assist you.
