If you have little knowledge about traffic rules then you must be aware of the fact that it is prohibited to drive any vehicle while being intoxicated.
This rule is a normal practice all over the world but are you wondering if can you get a DUI on an electric scooter? If yes, then this article is for you. Keep on reading this article to clear up this confusion of yours.
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Can You Get A DUI On An Electric Scooter? – Detailed Guide
An electric scooter may seem harmless even at the highest speed of e-scooter which is why many riders think it is okay to drive an electric scooter in a buzzed state and they will not get any DUI while being on an electric scooter. But you will be surprised to hear that this is not true.
According to a new ruling, you can get a DUI on an electric scooter no matter whether you are driving it on a public road or not. Although this new rule is applied in almost all the states of America you can get it confirmed from your local government or police station to be sure if there is any DUI rule against electric scooters.
Reasons behind DUI on an Electric Scooter
If you search on the internet you will find hundreds of accident reports where a drunk electric scooter rider caused the crash. Surprising, right? Although the electric scooter is not a high-speed vehicle, if you ride an e-scooter while intoxicated then it will be a big trouble for you as well as for those around you.
It would be best if you don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol no matter what the vehicle is. Law enforcement authorities have even labeled electric scooters as motor vehicles. So according to the new ruling of DUI law, if you are caught driving an electric scooter in a drunken state, you will be charged just like any other motor vehicle rider.
Now you must be wondering why the new DUI ruling has included electric scooters too, aren’t you? Well, this decision is made because of the increased use of electric scooters on public and private properties. To keep everyone safe from mishaps the law enforcement authority has come up with the solution to apply DUI on electric scooters too.
States where DUI on Electric Scooters is applicable
Riding an electric motor is illegal in states of America like Delaware, Florida, Idaho, New Jersey, Washington, Kentucky, etc. However, many states have allowed electric scooters on streets but if you are taking your scooter out you need to follow the traffic rules.
Moreover, all the states are now following the new DUI ruling. Therefore, I would recommend you don’t go out on an electric scooter while intoxicated. Also read a detailed comparison of electric bike vs scooter for commuting.
Penalties for DUI on Electric Scooters
If you are an electric scooter rider then keep in mind that it is illegal to drink and drive even an electric scooter in all states. So if you ever get caught riding an electric scooter while intoxicated then you will have to bear the charges. Following are the penalties that you may face based on a DUI on electric scooters.
- The lowest penalty is a fine.
- You can even lose your license.
- In severe cases, riders are put behind the bars.
FAQs about DUI on E-Scooter Ride
Can you get a DUI on an electric scooter in Canada?
Yes, Canadian police are implementing DUI rules on electric scooters too. If you are caught in a drunken state riding an electric scooter then you will have to bear the consequences.
Can you get a DUI on a scooter in NY?
According to the new ruling of DUI law, electric scooters are considered motor vehicles. So if you are in New York and riding an electric scooter while intoxicated then you can get a DUI from law enforcement authorities.
What happens if you get caught riding an electric scooter?
If you ride your e-scooter in states that have banned riding an electric scooter then you will either get a penalty notice of no driving license or you will be fined a specific amount of money.
What happens if you get caught drunk on an electric scooter?
If you get caught driving an electric scooter while intoxicated you will have to bear the same penalties as any other motor vehicle.
Final Words
Many people ride an electric scooter on a daily basis and the increased usage of e-scooters has caused a lot of trouble too. That is why all states now follow the new ruling of DUI law. This step was taken after multiple road accident reports caused by an intoxicated electric scooter rider.
Therefore, all e-scooter riders are advised not to ride their scooter while intoxicated, or else they will have to bear the consequences. This will ensure your as well as other people’s security. Thank you.
Hi, I’m Robert A. Cannon, Electrical Engineer by profession and travel enthusiast! I has been passionate about building electric circuits and remodeling since my childhood. Following my passion, I graduated as an Electrical Engineer from University of Houston and turned my passion into a profession. I have worked in different electric vehicle manufacturing companies.
Following my professional expertise and experience in using different electric vehicles, I started EGearLab to assist the community in finding the right e-gear for transportation according to their needs. Feel free to contact me at anytime for queries related to electric outdoor vehicles!