Most people know that driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can lead to severe consequences. However, not everyone knows that the same applies to riding a bicycle. So, can you get a DUI on a bicycle in PA? The answer is yes, and in this article, we will explain everything you need to know about it.
Bicycle DUI Laws in PA
In Pennsylvania, the law prohibits any person from operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to the Vehicle Code, a vehicle is defined as "every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except devices used exclusively upon rails or tracks."
Therefore, a bicycle is considered a vehicle under Pennsylvania law, and the same DUI laws that apply to cars, trucks, and motorcycles also apply to bicycles.
Under Pennsylvania law, it is illegal to operate a bicycle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you are caught riding a bicycle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with a DUI and face the same penalties as someone who was driving a car or truck under the influence.
Penalties for a Bicycle DUI in PA
The penalties for a bicycle DUI in Pennsylvania are the same as those for a car or truck DUI. If you are convicted of a first-time bicycle DUI offense, you can face:
- A fine of up to $300
- Up to six months of probation
- Alcohol highway safety school
- A drug and alcohol evaluation
- Community service
- Up to six months of license suspension (if you have a driver's license)
If you are convicted of a second or subsequent bicycle DUI offense, the penalties become more severe, and you may face:
- A fine of up to $2,500
- Jail time
- Up to one year of license suspension (if you have a driver's license)
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
Defenses Against a Bicycle DUI Charge
If you are charged with a bicycle DUI in Pennsylvania, you may be able to defend yourself against the charge. Some of the common defenses against a bicycle DUI charge include:
- The officer did not have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop you
- The officer did not have probable cause to arrest you
- The field sobriety test was not conducted correctly
- The breathalyzer test was not calibrated or maintained correctly
- You were not actually operating the bicycle at the time of the arrest
Conclusion
So, can you get a DUI on a bicycle in PA? Yes, you can. In Pennsylvania, a bicycle is considered a vehicle, and the same DUI laws that apply to cars, trucks, and motorcycles also apply to bicycles. If you are caught riding a bicycle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with a DUI and face severe penalties. Therefore, it's important to be responsible and avoid riding a bicycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.