DWI’s Are Not Limited to Just Autos and Trucks

Tim Powers

Law Offices of Tim Powers

940.580.2899

Since you were of legal drinking age, and probably even before then, you have no doubt heard about the dangers and consequences that come with drinking and driving-hurting yourself or other people on the road, damaging or totaling your car, possible probation and jail time, and sometimes even death.

Because of these reasons and many more, we often hear the same advice over and over again from our parents, our teachers, our friends and our family: if you’re going to be drinking, do not get behind the wheel of a car. Instead, the suggestion from many of these people is to find an alternative, safer way home from a night of drinking.

However, what many of these helpful advice-givers often forget to mention is the fact that drunk driving in a car or truck is not the only way in which you could be arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI). In fact, most people often assume that you have to be “operating a motor vehicle” in order to fall victim to a drinking and driving charge. Unfortunately, it is this way of thinking that has led many people into legal trouble or DWI charges.

There are many alternative methods of transportation that may also lead to a drinking and driving charge if you are caught operating them under the influence. Some of these vehicles include riding a bicycle, operating a boat, and even flying an airplane.

While the airplane may seem a bit obvious, you would be surprised to find out just how many people opt to bike their way home from the bar in an attempt to keep themselves off of the road, only get arrested for drinking and driving.

How Can You Get A DWI Without A Car?

According to Texas state law, a person commits a driving while intoxicated offense if they are operating or driving an aircraft, watercraft, or motor vehicle in a public place while under the influence. Unfortunately, bikes are often joined in this argument under the title of ‘motor vehicle.’

In actuality, obtaining a DWI while operating one of these vehicles is not such an uncommon event. In 2009, 28% of bicycle riders over the age of 16 that were involved in a fatal accident were found have blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) at or above the legal limit, 0.08 percent. Alcohol was also a contributing factor in 16% of fatal boating accidents.

What Can You Expect From These Types Of DWIs?

While some states may have different charges and penalties for the type of vehicle you were driving when you obtained your DWI, many states (including Texas) keep their charges the same. Therefore, the first time a person is caught bicycling or boating under the influence, they could face a $2,000 fee, a misdemeanor charge, and even possible jail time.

Because DWIs can have such a large impact on your life, your career and your future-no matter how you obtained your DWI-it is important that you meet with an experienced DWI lawyer to discuss your case and see which options you may have to fight your charges. Contact The Law Offices of Tim Powerstoday to ensure that your DWI charge is put behind you and will not affect your future or your goals.

If you are seeking aggressive criminal representation by an experienced criminal defense attorney for your Denton County DWI case or arrest in Denton County, contact the offices of Tim Powers today. There is no charge or obligation for the initial consultation. 940.580.2899 .

*Tim Powers is an attorney licensed to practice law by the Supreme Court of Texas. Nothing in this article is intended to be legal advice. For legal advice about any specific legal question you should directly consult an attorney.

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