Can You Get A DUI On A Skateboard? – some information you need to know
You will not be charged with a DUI if you ride a skateboard while inebriated. However, the Vehicle Code contains a provision that authorizes police officers to charge you with a misdemeanor if you ride your skateboard while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What exactly does that imply? You’ll receive a charge of public intoxication on your record, as well as a fine that varies by state and country. Keep in mind that these fees will have no impact on your car insurance.
With this in mind, it’s crucial to remember that using a motorized or electric skateboard while intoxicated can result in a DUI charge.
Being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) will have a significant impact on and interrupt your life. Your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked, you may be fined up to $1,000, and you may even be sentenced to prison.
But, if you’re not driving a car, can you obtain a DUI? What if it’s a skateboard, for example? We’ll go over this in greater detail in this article so you can make the best decisions possible while skateboarding.
Reasons You Should Not Drink And Skateboard
Accidents involving inebriated drivers aren’t only limited to autos; it’s also possible to get into an accident while riding a bike or skateboard.
You’re more likely to tumble owing to a lack of balance, and if you fall into the path of a vehicle, you’re more likely to be seriously harmed. On a bicycle, this is also true.
You could be charged with public intoxication and causing harm to others if you cause an accident on your skateboard.
Instead, call a taxi or Uber, have a designated driver among your friends, or ask a friend to call a taxi for you. The repercussions of skating while inebriated are significantly more serious than a $10 or $20 cab cost.
Is A Skateboard Viewed As A Road Vehicle?
When looking at the Vehicle Code, what exactly is a vehicle? A vehicle is a device that has the ability to move, propel, and be drawn on a highway. There are, however, a few exceptions. A device that is moved solely by human power and does not have a motor, as well as those that are only on rails or tracks, are not considered vehicles.
With that in mind, you cannot be charged with a DUI for riding a skateboard when inebriated. Unless, of course, the skateboard is powered by electricity or has a motor.
Just because a skateboard isn’t covered by the Vehicle Code doesn’t mean you won’t face serious consequences if you ride it while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
What Do Lawyers Say About Getting A DUI On A Skateboard?
Patrick O. Earl is a Moses Lake DUI/DWI lawyer.
“You must be operating a motor vehicle, and the statute defines what that entails.” A skateboard or a bicycle are not considered motor vehicles.”
Scott W. Lawrence, Seattle DUI/DWI Lawyer
“You can only be charged with a DUI if you’re driving a car.” However, consuming alcohol is almost probably a breach of your probation.”
Attorney Lucas McWethy in Lynnwood specializes in criminal defense.
“A DUI is only applicable to a motor vehicle” (like BUI is specific to a watercraft). However, the officer may arrest you for other offenses such as public intoxication, disorderly conduct, or DUI if you are on a public roadway, and the prosecutor will determine the appropriate penalty. These, as well as ingesting alcohol (depending on the judge’s restrictions), would almost certainly breach probation for a prior DUI.”
Seemore:
What Happens If You Are Still Detained?
Skateboarding while inebriated is not a misdemeanor, but public intoxication is, and you might end up spending the night in jail. Well, there’s the inebriated tank.
However, this will differ from one state to the next. In certain places, you’ll be fined $250, but in others, you’ll be fined as well as facing jail time (if your skateboard is electric or powered), just like if you were driving a car. For your first conviction, you can expect to spend 30 days in jail and up to 120 days for your second.
The charges on electric and motorized skateboards are equally as severe as they are in a car. However, each state in the United States has the authority to enact its own rules and principles in such situations.
Because each person and setting is distinct, so are their circumstances. Because no two cases are the same, it’s critical to understand your state’s DUI/DWI regulations.