Can You Get a DUI on an Electric Scooter?
Electric scooters have gained significant traction as a preferred mode of transportation in various cities nationwide, and Arizona is no exception. Notably, at Arizona universities like Arizona State University in Tempe and the University of Arizona in Tucson, these eco-friendly and user-friendly vehicles have found a special place. College students, in particular, have embraced them as an efficient means to traverse expansive university grounds.
Electric scooters offer several advantages that make them particularly attractive to university students and young professionals. Their eco-friendly nature aligns with the growing consciousness about environmental sustainability. Additionally, they are easy to operate, often requiring just a mobile app to unlock and ride.
Interesting Statistic: A recent survey revealed that over 60% of college students at major Arizona universities have tried electric scooters at least once, showcasing their immense popularity in the academic community.
However, this rise in popularity also raises the question: Can you get a DUI on an electric scooter in Arizona?
This article will cover the following topics:
- Why Can You Get a DUI On an Electric Scooter?
- How Can I Get a DUI While Riding My E-Scooter?
- Can You Get an E-Scooter DUI If You Are On a Private Road?
- Can I Get a DUI On a Lime or Bird E-Scooter?
- What are the Penalties for a DUI On an E-Scooter?
- DUI on an E-Scooter FAQs
Why Can You Get a DUI On an Electric Scooter?
Although electric scooters may seem like a fun and harmless way to get around, they are still considered motor vehicles under the law.
This means that if you operate an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can be charged with a DUI.
The same DUI laws that apply to cars, motorcycles, and bicycles also apply to electric scooters.
How Can I Get a DUI While Riding My E-Scooter?
To be charged with a DUI on an electric scooter, you must be operating the scooter while intoxicated.
Suppose you are pulled over by law enforcement while riding your electric scooter and suspect you are under the influence. In that case, they can administer a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or the presence of drugs in your system.
If your BAC is above the legal limit of 0.08% or if it is determined that you are under the influence of drugs, you can be charged with a DUI.
It’s important to note that even if you have a prescription for the drugs in your system, you can still be charged with a DUI if they impair your ability to operate the electric scooter safely.
Can You Get an E-Scooter DUI If You Are On a Private Road?
Many people mistakenly believe they can avoid a DUI charge on an electric scooter by riding on private property or roads. However, this is not the case. Even if you are riding your electric scooter on private property or roads not open to the public, you can still be charged with a DUI if you are under the influence.
The DUI laws in Arizona apply to all motor vehicles, regardless of where they are being operated.
Can I Get a DUI On a Lime or Bird E-Scooter?
Lime and Bird are popular electric scooter rental companies that operate in many cities, including in Arizona. If you rent an electric scooter from one of these companies and operate it under the influence, you can still be charged with a DUI.
The responsibility for safely operating the scooter lies with the rider, regardless of whether they own or rent it.
What are the Penalties for a DUI On an E-Scooter?
You may face severe penalties if convicted of a DUI on an electric scooter in Arizona. Even a first-time DUI is nothing to take lightly, so it is important to hire an experienced Phoenix DUI lawyer. The penalties can put a real hardship on your personal and professional life.
- Mandatory Jail Time: Sentencing can range from one day to six months. The minimum sentence is 10 days in jail, of which nine may be suspended after successfully completing alcohol classes.
- Financial Penalties: A minimum of $1,250 fine for a Regular first-time DUI (non-extreme), over $3,000 for a Second Regular DUI (non-extreme), a minimum of $2,500 for a first-time Extreme DUI, and over $3,250 for a Second Extreme DUI – expect to pay more.
- License Suspension: Conviction will include a minimum 90-day license suspension with a maximum of one year.
- Other consequences include Possible probation of up to five years, mandatory alcohol/drug screening and classes, possible community service, jail incarceration fines, possible monthly probation fees, possible SR22 insurance, and one-year mandatory Ignition Interlock.
DUI on an E-Scooter FAQs
Q: Can I hire a DUI attorney if I get a DUI on an electric scooter?
A: Yes, if you are charged with a DUI on an electric scooter, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a DUI attorney. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Q: Are electric scooters considered motor vehicles?
A: Yes, electric scooters are considered motor vehicles under the law in Arizona and many other states. This means that the same DUI laws apply to electric scooters as to cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.
Q: Can You Lose Y`our Driver’s License for a DUI On an E-Scooter?
A: Yes, losing your driver’s license for a DUI on an electric scooter is possible. In Arizona, the state’s DUI law defines a “motor vehicle” as any vehicle that is self-propelled and designed for transporting people or property on a public roadway. Since electric scooters fall under this definition, a DUI conviction can result in losing your driver’s license, even if you were not operating a traditional motor vehicle.
How Arja Shah Law Can Help Defend You
While electric scooters offer a practical and sustainable mode of transportation, it’s crucial to recognize that Arizona law classifies them as motor vehicles.
Therefore, operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in DUI charges. Being responsible and adhering to the law is essential to reaping the benefits of electric scooter travel without risking legal repercussions.
Should you find yourself facing a DUI charge involving an electric scooter, Arja Shah, an experienced DUI defense attorney, can provide the specialized legal representation you need to defend against such charges effectively.
Don’t let a DUI define your future—contact the Shah Law Firm today and receive a free consultation at (602) 560-7408.