New York streets, from the city to the suburbs, are always bustling and packed with travelers of all kinds. Car drivers, motorcyclists and pedestrians all must learn to share the road with safety in order to mitigate the risk of a serious accident occurring. This includes only driving while sober and sound of mind–but does that law extend to bicyclists as well?

As you already know, drinking and driving over the limit is illegal in every state in the United States. But most importantly, it puts everyone on the road at risk for serious danger. In New York, you can be penalized to the full extent of the law for driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Naturally, many people wonder if it’s illegal to operate a bicycle while drunk, as well. But in New York State, it is not illegal to ride a bike under the influence. After a few drinks, if you ride a bicycle, skateboard, or any other type of non-motorized vehicle, you will not have to worry about being pulled over for (DWI) Driving While Intoxicated. 

New York legislators have created a bill that prohibits the operation of a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This bill, if passed into law, applies on public highways, private roads open to motor vehicle traffic, any other parking lot, and sidewalks. If the bill becomes law, it will become illegal to ride a bicycle while drunk–but as of right now, it isn’t.

Can You Get A DWI Driving A Motorized Bicycle In New York?

As with all rules, there is always some kind of exception. While it is not illegal to ride a bicycle under the influence in New York, it is illegal to operate a motorized bicycle. If you have altered your bike in any way to add a motor, your bicycle is treated like a motorcycle in New York. According to our state law, if the vehicle you are operating has a motor, it is treated like a car and therefore you can be arrested for driving it while under the influence.

If you have been arrested for driving a motorized bicycle or a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you need strong legal representation right away. GIanni Karmily is a tough, hard-working Nassau County, Long Island criminal defense attorney who has extensive experience representing clients in this situation. Don’t hesitate, and call as soon as you’re arrested to begin developing a strong defense case.

What Are The Penalties For Driving Under The Influence In New York?

If you choose to operate a motor vehicle, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or truck, while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you are simply putting other road users in danger. It’s no secret that drugs and alcohol can seriously impair your ability to drive. But not many people truly know how seriously these charges are taken in a court of law.

A (DWI) Driving While Intoxicated conviction in New York could lead to long-term consequences that can impact every aspect of your personal and professional life. Some people lose their licenses or career due to this kind of charge. The best way to reduce the risk of this serious conviction disrupting your life is to hire a skilled criminal defense attorney who will stop at nothing to fight for you.

If you have been charged with (DWI) Driving While Intoxicated in Nassau County, Long Island, your penalties can be severe even if it’s just your first offense. Refer to this full list of driving under the influence penalties in New York, and call Gianni Karmily as soon as you have been arrested.

Schedule A Criminal Case Evaluation With The Law Firm Of Gianni Karmily If You Have Been Arrested For (DWI) Driving While Intoxicated

Have you been accused of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in New York? It is possible to fight these charges, but you will need the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Never gamble with your future, and don’t attempt to defend yourself before a judge for such a serious crime. Seek quality, trusted legal representation from Nassau County, Long Island driving under the influence of attorney Gianni Karmily as soon as possible after you have been arrested in New York. Gianni can carefully analyze the evidence from your arrest, look for flaws in the state’s case, and fight for your freedom.

The Law Firm of Gianni Karmily offers a safe, secure, in-depth criminal case evaluation for anyone arrested for (DWI) Driving While Intoxicated in New York–schedule yours today.