People are excited to gather again, and the sun is shining here in Florida. This means alcohol consumption will be on the rise. As your local DUI attorneys, and voice of reason, we want you to know of a few scenarios that could land you a DUI if you aren’t careful. Each state has its own law and interprets the “D” (driving) in DUI differently. In Florida, the term vehicle is defined in statute 316.003 as a device by which a person or property is transported.
This is a very loose definition, and in the land of sun and fun where golf cart communities are popping up daily, and bikers dot the shores of beach towns, it will be good to know if your mode of transportation would deliver a DUI if your blood alcohol concentration is above a .08.
While Florida law does not list the specific types of vehicles under the statue, DUI attorney’s give some answers to your questions and take a look at a few scenarios where people have been arrested for driving under the influence and their method of transportation.
Can I get a DUI driving a golf cart?
Yes. In Florida, you can drive a golf cart when you are 14. Even though you don’t have your license, you can still be charged with a DUI if you are found under the influence while operating a golf cart, and it will be counted as a prior on your record.
Can I get a DUI riding a bike?
Yes. Florida considers a device powered by the human body as a vehicle. Please drink responsibly on your bike bar crawls and outings with friends!
Can I get a DUI riding a horse?
Yes. In 2017, a Polk county woman was charged with a DUI while riding a horse. Bystanders believed she looked disoriented, and when police arrived her blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit. Keep your horse riding on the trails, and alcohol consumption when your feet are on the ground.
Can I get a DUI driving a boat?
Yes. This is a big one in Florida, and it’s called a BUI (boating under the influence). If you have a blood alcohol level of .08, or your normal faculties are impaired when operating a watercraft, barge or airboat you will be charged with a BUI. Lets practice safe boating this summer to avoid a BUI.
Can I get a DUI riding a lawn mower?
Yes. We don’t see this one every day, but it’s still a yes. Here’s a story of a man from Marion County who was under the influence driving his lawn mower in the street with a speed limit of 55. This is illegal, very dangerous, and will quickly land you a DUI.
Contact our DUI Attorneys Today
Just because you are not driving a car does not mean you aren’t at risk for a DUI. So, please drink responsibly whether you’re mowing your lawn Sunday morning or on a boat enjoying the sun and sandbars. If you have been charged with a DUI, contact our DUI attorneys to learn about your rights and how we can help represent you.