Can You Get a DUI on a Bike in Florida?
States have alcohol laws in place to protect those drinking and any innocent parties injured by the consumer’s choices. Some of the most well-known laws involve intoxicated persons and driving motor vehicles.
But some states have laws regulating drinking and using non-motorized vehicles, like bicycles. And these laws make it so that you can be arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) while riding a bike.
Florida Bicycle Laws
Florida applies DUI laws to any vehicle, whether motor-driven or not. Under these laws, it’s possible for a person riding a bicycle to get a DUI.
So, suppose you are operating a bicycle and endangering the well-being or safety of others or yourself. In that case, a police officer can administer a field sobriety test, arrest you, and charge you with DUI.
Bike Accident Statistics
It might seem like a waste of law enforcement resources, but there is a reason that states enforce laws like these. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, around 1000 cyclists are killed every year on average, and 20% of fatalities involving riders with a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of over .08%.
Penalties for DUI on a Bike in Florida
If you are convicted of a DUI while riding a bike, you can face up to six months in jail and a fine of $1,000. Plus, multiple arrests will result in increasing fines with each conviction. These numbers do not even include the legal bills you will acquire throughout the process.
If you cause the injury or death of another rider, you will be charged with a felony and face a long-term prison sentence.
How Can a DUI Attorney Help?
A good DUI attorney can question the validity of your arrest, negotiate your fines/penalties, or even get your charges dropped.
They have experience in this field and can plot the best course of action for you based on your situation.
Contact a Florida DUI Lawyer for Help
Bicycle DUI laws in Florida are tricky. If you are charged with one, you will need an experienced Tampa DUI lawyer. Attorney Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. has helped countless clients get the best possible defense. Contact him at 813-258-4800 or use the online form to schedule a free consultation.