When we hear the term DUI, we often think of someone driving their car, truck, or SUV while drunk. While it’s true that most DUI charges are due to someone driving a car or truck on the road, that doesn’t have to be the case. The law against drinking and driving covers a number of motorized vehicles, not just things you drive on the road. Therefore, it’s important to understand those cases that can lead to unusual DUI charges…
Unusual DUI Charges: Boats, Bikes, and Beyond
Boating and BUI
Drinking and driving a boat is a quick way to get yourself an unusual DUI, or BUI in this case. Although boats never hit the roads, it’s still illegal to operate a boat while over the legal limit. This may come as a shock, considering most of us like to enjoy lake days with a beer in hand. However, it isillegal to drive a boat while you have a BAC over the legal limit. So, be sure to select a boating DD at your next Independence Day party.
Dirt Bikes and ATVs
ATVs and dirt bikes can also fall under the unusual DUI category. Most people don’t think about these motorized vehicles since you don’t use them on main roads. However, operating one of the little vehicles while under the influence can still get you a DUI charge. So, be careful the next time you feel like having a beer and hitting the trails with your ATV or dirt bike.
Sitting Behind the Wheel
Although you may not be driving, it’s possible to still receive a DUI charge while sitting behind the wheel of your car. In some cases, your vehicle doesn’t have to actually be in motion to receive a DUI. If an officer has reason to believe you just drove or were about to do, you could still face a charge.
So, in order to avoid this unusual DUI, try to stay out of the driver’s seat, even while just sitting. In fact, it’s best to make sure the keys aren’t in your hands or close to your person. You want to avoid giving them any reason to think you would drive while intoxicated.
In short, DUI charges don’t always take place behind the wheel of your car, while you’re in motion. There are certain cases that can lead to a bit of an unusual DUI. Therefore, just remember that you can receive a DUI when operating almost any motor vehicle while drunk.
