Can You Get A DUI Driving A Boat/Bicycle
Yes, you can be charged with DUI (driving under the influence), specifically BUI (boating under the influence), if you operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. On the other hand, you cannot be charged with DUI if you are caught riding your bicycle while drunk or drugged. You can, however, be charged with offenses related to endangering public safety and violating the state’s traffic and bicycle laws.
While these charges may seem minor, they carry significant penalties, depending on the specific circumstances of your situation. Speak to a Murfreesboro DUI attorney to learn about your rights and the legal remedies specific to your case.
You Can Get Charged With BUI in Murfreesboro
Operating a boat while impaired due to drugs or alcohol is considered as serious as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Under the law, you cannot operate a boat if you have a 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or higher or if you have consumed illegal, over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription drugs that significantly impact your driving behavior.
It’s vital to note that you cannot be charged with BUI if your boat is moored or anchored. On the other hand, you can get charged with DUI even if the engine is not running and your car is parked. This is one of the most crucial differences between a DUI and a BUI. The penalties you face if you get convicted of BUI will depend on whether it’s your first offense and the circumstances surrounding the incident. These include:
- A fine ranging from $250 up to $5,000
- Jail time of up to one year or longer if you have subsequent offenses or if the incident resulted in property damage or injury to others
- Revocation or suspension of your boating privileges for one to 10 years
- Mandatory boating safety classes
- Community service
- Probation
- Substance abuse treatment
In addition, the police can test your blood or breath for the presence of intoxicants if you are unconscious or incapable of refusing during your arrest. However, the prosecution cannot use your test results as evidence against you without your consent.
You Cannot Be Charged With DUI While Riding a Bicycle in Murfreesboro
Even if a police officer stops you on suspicion of DUI while you are riding your bicycle, they can’t charge you with DUI because there’s no bicycle DUI law in Tennessee. Be warned, however, that you may be charged with other criminal offenses if you are caught riding your bicycle while drugged or drunk. These potential charges include public intoxication, reckless endangerment, and other related traffic offenses.
Reach Out To Our Seasoned Murfreesboro DUI Lawyer Today
If you are facing a charge of BUI or any charges related to DUI, our Murfreesboro DUI lawyer, Joshua T. Crain, can help. They can ensure you understand the specific charges you’re facing, your options to fight those charges, and your legal rights are protected. Contact us online or call our office at 615-848-2088 to arrange your case review with our Murfreesboro DUI attorney today.