We all know that it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Pennsylvania statutes outline the different penalties that can be imposed depending upon an individual’s blood alcohol content at the time he or she is arrested for this crime. However, many of us may not know that it is also illegal to ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol. The same penalties that can be imposed for driving a motor vehicle under the influence apply to operating a bicycle under the influence.

In addition, did you know that it is also illegal to operate a boat under the influence of alcohol? I recently represented an individual who was stopped by a park ranger as he was exiting his kayak from the Delaware River. The kayak did not have the required launch permit, so the park ranger approached my client. He noticed an odor of alcohol and took my client to a hospital for a blood test. When the test showed a blood alcohol content over the legal limit, he was arrested for operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol. Fortunately, plea negotiations resulted in a very good outcome for the client, but we should all be aware of this crime as fall weather allows us to enjoy time outdoors a little longer.

 

Dean Arthur is one of the most respected and well-known lawyers in Bucks County. A former president of the Bucks County Bar Association, Dean specializes in Civil and Commercial Litigation, Insurance Defense and Criminal Defense at Weber Kracht and Chellew.

This blog is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.