Like most, you’d probably prefer not to get a DUI or DWI after having a fun night out. Fortunately, you can avoid these charges, hefty fines, and the potential for harming yourself and others by avoiding driving after you’ve been drinking.
While you may be certain that you shouldn’t operate a vehicle while inebriated, you may also find yourself wondering, "Can I get a DUI on a bike?"
Can You Get a DUI for Biking While Drunk?
Many states may charge you with a DUI offense for riding a bicycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, in the state of Illinois, this is not the case. DUIs in the state of Illinois prohibit the "physical control of any vehicle" while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In this case, vehicles are defined as:
- cars
- trucks
- motorcycles
- mopeds
- snowmobiles
- golf cars
- boats.
Penalties for Riding a Bike While Intoxicated in Chicago
Although you won’t be held to the same consequences of a DUI, it is important to note that riding a bicycle while impaired can still result in legal consequences. If you ride your bike while drunk or high and you get stopped and questioned by an officer, you may face other charges.
For example, disorderly conduct in Illinois is defined as any behavior that is likely to disturb the peace or provoke a breach of the peace. This can include a wide range of behaviors, such as making loud and unreasonable noise, using abusive language, engaging in threatening or violent behavior, or disrupting a public gathering. Disorderly conduct is typically charged as a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,500.
Like drivers, cyclists must obey the same traffic laws. Therefore, you must stop at red lights and stop signs, stop for pedestrians, and yield when necessary. Violating a traffic law–even while drunk biking–can result in a traffic ticket.
Facing DUI Charges in Chicago? Let Our Firm Help!
At The Toney Law Firm, our criminal defense team has been helping individuals fight their DUI charges for countless years. We are firm believers that mistakes happen, and people can change when given the opportunity, and we want to help make that possible.
If you got a DUI or were charged with a criminal offense while riding a bicycle, contact us today at (888) 473-4058 to learn more about how our team can help you put your charges behind you and move forward with your life.