Bicycles are an increasingly popular mode of transportation. They are great for getting around while avoiding the difficult traffic situations in many cities. When you bike, you can save on fuel costs, parking fees and sometimes get to where you are going faster than driving a car.
However, you must know the laws governing bicycles throughout the city and state. One of the most important laws is that you can get a ticket for driving while under the influence (DUI) on a bicycle.
What is bicycling under the influence?
Technically bicycling under the influence is operating a bike after drinking alcohol or using drugs. This offense is similar to driving a car or other vehicle under the influence.
Since Georgia views bicycles as moving vehicles, they operate under the same DUI laws and charges. It is possible to have to pay the same fines and penalties that you would if you were driving a car under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What are the penalties for bicycling under the influence?
A bicycle DUI will also remain on your driving and criminal records. This can prevent you from getting low prices on car insurance and interfere with other vehicle matters.
You could go to jail or face a hefty fine. While on a bicycle, a DUI should not impact your license, and many times you could get away with probation or community service.
When you get a bicycle DUI, it is a misdemeanor that can remain on your criminal record for a very long time.