Let us find the answer to this question by looking up the definition in the vehicle code. A device is considered a vehicle if it can speed up, move about, and travel on roads.
In this case, however, the exception to the rule about the origin of propulsion also serves as a rule. In this context, the term “skateboard” refers to an item propelled forward by the rider’s feet and does not include any motorized components.
Many ask, “Can you get a DUI on a skateboard?”. People riding skateboards are not typically given DUI (driving under the influence) citations by the police, although the answer may vary depending on the state.
However, skateboarding, when under the influence of alcohol, is extremely risky and should be avoided at all costs.
You run the risk of injuring not only yourself but also those who are on the same track. Under the effects of drugs or alcohol, showing off your talents on a skateboard is a dangerous activity that can easily end in catastrophe.
Can You Get A DUI On A Skateboard When You Are Drunk?
When somebody decides to ride the skateboard after having a few drinks, there is a possibility that they will get into trouble.
This person may have a slower rate of reaction than average whenever it comes to halting or turning to avoid hitting objects or pedestrians.
It might be comparable to the kind of impairment that one feels when driving a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The police can often give someone skateboarding in an unsafe manner a straightforward breathalyzer test. In most states, an individual is considered legally impaired if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or above.
If you are operating a skateboard in a manner that violates the law, you may be subject to charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
For example, a man in Oregon was arrested for driving under the influence after colliding with a moving vehicle while on a skateboard.
Varied people have different reactions to alcohol. After drinking a couple of alcoholic drinks, a person who weighs around 140 pounds has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.09%.
One alcoholic beverage, for instance, is equal to 1.5 ounces of 80-proof whisky or Twelve ounces of beer with a 5% alcohol per volume content.
Is A Skateboard Considered A Road Vehicle?
When glancing at the Vehicle Code, what does it mean to have a vehicle? A machine that can move, push itself, and be drawn along a highway is referred to as a vehicle. There are a few notable outliers.
A device that can only be moved by human force and does not contain an internal combustion engine is not considered a vehicle, nor are devices that run solely on rails or tracks.
Because of this, the answer is negative; you cannot receive a driving under the influence charge for skateboarding while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Unless, of course, a skateboard is equipped with a motor or uses electricity as its source of propulsion.
Even if the Vehicle Code does not regulate skateboarding, this does not mean you will never face serious consequences if caught riding it under alcohol or drugs.
Skateboard Laws and Regulations
Laws and rules governing skateboard safety can be found in most states and local communities. Helmets are compulsory gear in most situations; knee pads, elbow pads, and other safety clothing are strongly suggested.
Intoxicated people might grab their skateboards but must remember their helmets and other safety gear.
If a person is skating without the necessary safety gear, the police typically have the ability to give a ticket to that person.
Driving Under the Influence is a violation that only applies to motor vehicles. On the other hand, the officer has the authority to arrest you for a variety of other offenses, including public intoxication, disorderly conduct, or, if you are operating a vehicle on a public roadway, driving under the influence, and they will let the prosecutor decide what the appropriate charge is.
These things, along with drinking alcohol (based on the restrictions set by the particular court), are considered violations of punishment for a previous DUI conviction.
Ordinances enacted by cities and communities frequently detail where skateboarding is permitted and prohibited.
If a skateboarder is found to be riding in a prohibited place, they are subject to being stopped by the police or any authority figure authorized to enforce the law.
If that person is intoxicated, there is a possibility that they will be arrested or issued a citation for violating the laws governing disorderly conduct.
Do Not Drink And Skate
The operation of motorized vehicles is specifically addressed in several state statutes that pertain to driving while intoxicated (DUI).
In compliance with these state rules, drivers of cars, buses, golf carts, and other vehicles must maintain a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that is below the permissible limit.
Accidents caused by drunk driving do not necessarily involve automobiles; it is feasible to be involved in an accident even if you are intoxicated while riding skateboard.
Drinking alcohol puts you at a larger risk of losing your balance, which increases the likelihood that you will experience a fall.
If you lose your balance and fall in the direction of a moving car, there is a chance that you could get serious injuries. When riding a bicycle, this is also true.
If you skateboard while intoxicated and cause an accident, you could be arrested and charged with public intoxication as well as inflicting injuries on other people.
A driver who has been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol faces the possibility of having their driver’s license suspended in addition to having to pay the penalty.
In addition, they may be mandated to get an ignition interlock system fitted in their vehicle.
To determine whether or not to start the car, the device analyses the breath alcohol concentration (BAC).
What Happens If You Are Still Detained?
It is not a criminal to skateboard while under the influence, but it is to be intoxicated in public, and because of this, there is a possibility that you may spend a night in jail.
The holding area for drunks Having said that, this will also be different from one state to the next.
In certain areas, you will be fined $250; however, in others, you may be fined and even risk prison time (if the board is electronic or driven) in the same manner as if you were operating a vehicle.
This is the case if your skateboard has an electric or powered component.
In most cases, this results in a sentence of thirty days in prison for the first offense and up to one hundred and twenty days for the second conviction.
These fees are just as significant in a vehicle as when using an electric skateboard or motorized skateboard. Nevertheless, mostly in the United States of America, each state can develop its own rules and guidelines to govern such situations.
Because every person and circumstance is different, the situations that people find themselves in are also one of a kind.
Because no two cases are identical to one another, it is of the utmost importance to be familiar with the DUI/DWI statutes in your state.
Conclusion
It is possible to be arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even if you are not operating a motor vehicle. The question is Can you Get a DUI on a Skateboard?
The same applies to using a bike and skateboard. If you are discovered riding your skateboard while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you may be subject to serious fines depending on the laws of your state.
Before jumping on your board, taking precautions and getting yourself sober is always in your best interest.
When drunk, it is best to hire a taxi or have a buddy drive you around instead of operating a motor vehicle. It is simply not worth taking the chance of getting hurt or of being charged with a crime and serving time in jail.
Use your head, and watch your step. Remember that skating is a fun pastime, but you should never partake in it while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
FAQs
Can you get a DUI on an electric skateboard in California?
Electric skateboards and “hoverboards” are gaining popularity among young people. However, even though legislation in California has made these boards lawful, it is illegal to ride one while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Places where the maximum allowed speed is less than or equal to 35 miles per hour.
Are electric skateboards allowed?
Yes. On the sidewalk, hoverboards and other small electric gadgets may be used, but only on the condition that their use does not put pedestrians at risk.
It is important to be aware that scooters are invariably counted as bicycles and, as a result, are not permitted to travel there.
Is it possible to get a DUI on a skateboard?
Yes, it is possible to be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) while operating a skateboard.
In some states, such as California, DUI laws apply not only to motor vehicles, but also to any “vehicle” that can be driven on public roads, including skateboards.
However, these laws vary from state to state and should be consulted for specific information about your local regulations.
Are there any legal consequences for getting a DUI on a skateboard?
Yes, depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the incident, you may face fines or jail time as well as other penalties. Generally, DUI offenses are considered a criminal act, and you may lose your driver’s license or have it suspended for a period of time.
You should consult with an attorney to determine the exact consequences for your particular situation.
Are there any safety measures I can take when riding my skateboard?
Yes, there are several safety measures you can take to help minimize the chances of being charged with a DUI.
First, always wear a helmet and other protective gear while riding your skateboard. Additionally, try to ride in designated areas or on roads with low traffic volumes so that you are more visible to drivers. Finally, be aware of local laws and regulations governing skateboarding.
Can you drink and skateboard?
No. It is illegal to operate a skateboard while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in most jurisdictions.
If you have consumed alcohol or drugs, it is important to wait until they are no longer affecting your abilities before attempting to ride a skateboard and avoid putting yourself and others at risk.
Can you get a DUI on a skateboard in Germany?
Yes, it is possible to get a DUI on a skateboard in Germany. The country’s Road Traffic Act (StVZO) states that anyone driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be charged with a DUI.
This includes skateboards as well as other vehicles such as bicycles and motorized scooters.
Can you get a DUI on an electric skateboard in Illinois?
Yes, it is possible to get a DUI on an electric skateboard in Illinois. According to the state’s Vehicle Code, anyone operating any motorized vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be charged with a DUI.
This includes electric skateboards as well as other motorized vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and scooters.
Can I get a DUI on a longboard?
It is possible to get a DUI on a longboard in some jurisdictions, however this can depend on the laws of your specific state.
Generally speaking, if the board is powered by any type of motorized means such as an electric motor or pedals, then it can be considered a motorized vehicle and DUI laws will apply.