Driving under the influence is one of the most serious offences in Canada. It can lead to major accidents and fatalities which is why law enforcement authorities take it very seriously.
Moreover, once you are charged with a DUI, there are pretty grave consequences. In addition to paying hefty fines, you will also have to deal with the charges for the offence popping up in every background check whether it is for renting a house, getting admitted to a college or for a new job.
Many people believe that they can be charged with a DUI only when they are driving a car or a motorcycle. That is not true, you can be charged with a DUI in many other cases as well.
Some surprising ways in which you can be charged with a DUI include:
Riding A Bicycle
If you are riding a bicycle while you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will be charged with DUI. After trucks, cars and bikes, bicycles are one of the leading vehicles for DUI charges. Since they are street-legal vehicles operating them under the influence can be very dangerous for the rider and other drivers on the road. However, the prosecutor will seek lesser public intoxication charges for bicycle riding unless and until you are proved of doing something extremely reckless.
Riding A Lawnmower
Surprisingly, receiving a DUI for riding a lawnmower when under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not uncommon. Many people have been charged with the offence of driving a lawnmower while they were intoxicated. People get a bit too reckless behind the wheel of these machines as well. Hence, you may be tempted to throw back a few beers before mowing the lawn, it’s best to stay sober and on your own property to avoid arrest.
On an ATV
Although an ATV is an off-road vehicle, it is a recreational vehicle that many people like to mix with alcohol. Riding an ATV drunk is a highly dangerous activity. An ATV is an extremely powerful machine and if it gets out of control, it can cause damage to you and other people’s lives. Police have been known to arrest overly reckless people riding an ATV while they were under the influence.
On a Horse
As mentioned, DUI charges are not restricted to motor vehicles. In addition to bicycles, there have been cases when individuals riding a horse under the influence of alcohol and drugs were arrested for DUI. Horses are big, heavy animals, and riding one while intoxicated can put both you and the animal in dangerous situations.
Driving A Zamboni
A Zamboni is a big ice resurfacing vehicle used to clean and smooth the surface of a sheet of ice, usually in an ice rink. It is a heavy-duty vehicle that requires certain expertise. There have been cases where individuals have been arrested for driving a Zamboni when drunk. Drivers who have been arrested for Zamboni-based DUI charges have been known to swerve around the ice and crash into the sides of the rink.
Conclusion
Long story short, try to avoid riding any vehicle or mode of transportation when you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are putting your life and the life of people around you in danger, you will be arrested.
About Slaferek Law
Slaferek Lawyers are highly proficient at strategizing effective defence strategies that can lead to case dismissal, reduced charges, reduced penalties, and more. To get in touch with us today, click here. Our expertise lies in criminal cases and DUI cases.
