Most DUI arrests result from people driving an automobile while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. So when most Tennesseans think of DUI, they think of driving a car or truck. However, there are other modes of transportation to avoid when drinking. Read on for answers to some of the most popular DUI questions related to getting around.

Can You Get a DUI While Riding a Bike?

This is the most popular question regarding DUIs not in an automobile. Unlike some states, including California and Louisiana, you cannot get a DUI on a bicycle in Tennessee. The statute for DUI specifies operation of an automobile or other motor-driven vehicle. Since a bike does not have a motor a DUI cannot be a consequence of riding one when impaired. That doesn’t mean you should ride a bike after a night of drinking because it can be dangerous for many reasons, but getting a DUI is not one of them.

Other Modes of Transportation and DUI Laws

Because the law is very specific to motor-driven vehicles, it excludes many modes of transportation. Consider this list of popular questions asked specific to modes of transportation and their DUI risk:

  • Can you get a DUI while kayaking? No, but you should always wear a lifejacket when drinking and kayaking.
  • Can you get a DUI on a riding lawn mower? Yes, even when mowing your own lawn, but certainly if you drive it to the store.
  • Can you get a DUI for driving a golf cart? Yes. See lawn mower….
  • Can you get a DUI when riding a horse? No, but try not to fall off.
  • Can you get a DUI when riding an electronic foot scooter, like those for rent in downtown Knoxville and Nashville? Yes. The state added these to the statute in July 2019.
  • Can you get a DUI when driving a motorcycle? Absolutely.
  • How about when sitting in your car? You can even be arrested and convicted for a DUI for simply sitting in your parked car. The charge can be made that you were in the position to drive the motor vehicle.
  • Can you get a DUI for driving a motor vehicle under the influence of something other than alcohol or recreational drugs? Intoxication from taking OTC drugs to manage things like allergies occurs, so DUI laws not only apply to alcohol consumption and illegal drug use.

Now you have a general overview of the more obscure modes of transportation and how the Tennessee DUI laws apply to them. Being stopped on suspicion or arrested for a DUI is very serious with potential life-altering results if convicted.

Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Tennessee

While true the application of DUI laws to transportation options is narrowed to only include motor-driven vehicles, be aware that the rest of Tennessee’s DUI laws are quite strict. In case you need some extra-incentive to avoid driving while intoxicated, consider these facts and potentially life-altering consequences of being convicted of a DUI in Tennessee:

  • A Tennessee DUI conviction remains on your record forever.
  • Being arrested for a DUI gets expensive quickly. An arrest will cost you at a minimum a towing fee, bail and court costs, if the case gets that far. Add to that any attorney fees you may incur. If convicted of DUI, you will be responsible for additional expenses, including fines.
  • A single DUI conviction will result in suspension your driver’s license to revocation of it. This is in addition to jail time from 48 hours to 11 months and 29 days.
  • Having a DUI on your record may keep you from traveling to certain countries, including Canada.

There are many more things to consider before you get behind the wheel after having a few drinks, and some to remember if you find yourself being pulled over and arrested. Click here for more information about DUI Laws in Tennessee.

What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with a DUI?

A DUI conviction in Tennessee can come with serious, life-altering consequences. It is important not to go through the process and trial alone. Hiring a reputable DUI attorney is important to improve your chances of winning or receiving lesser charges. 

Hire one of the attorneys from McKeehan Law Group as your personal DUI attorney, so they can evaluate and fully examine your DUI arrest to formulate a defense for your case. You’re sure to appreciate having a well-practiced and expert attorney that cares about you. Call MLG today at (865) 294-8008 for your free DUI consultation.