Can I Get a DUI on a Bicycle in Florida?
May 30, 2025 | Sagi Shaked | Personal Injury
In Florida, most people know they can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if they’re caught operating a vehicle while intoxicated. But what if you’re riding a bicycle? It may surprise you, but in some cases, you can be arrested for DUI even if you’re not driving a car.
What Does Florida Law Say?
Under Florida Statute 316.193, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that your normal faculties are impaired, or if your blood alcohol content is 0.08% or higher.
The key question is whether a bicycle counts as a “vehicle” under this law. In Florida, the answer is yes. Florida law defines a vehicle broadly, and bicycles are included in that definition. This means you can be charged with DUI while riding a bicycle if you’re impaired.
DUI on a Bicycle: What It Means
If a police officer sees you riding a bike while appearing intoxicated, they can stop you and conduct an investigation. This may include asking you to perform field sobriety tests or take a breath test. If you show signs of impairment, you could be arrested for DUI, even though you weren’t behind the wheel of a car.
This is because the law treats the impaired operation of any vehicle on public roads as a safety risk. A cyclist under the influence can still cause serious harm to themselves or others, especially if they enter traffic, disobey signals, or fall into the path of a moving car.
What Are the Penalties?
If you are convicted of a DUI while riding a bicycle, you could face the same penalties as someone convicted of DUI in a car.
For a first-time offender in Florida, these penalties can include:
- Fines between $500 and $1,000
- Up to six months in jail
- Mandatory DUI school
In some cases, your driver’s license could also be suspended, even though you weren’t operating a motor vehicle. The court may also order alcohol or drug counseling depending on the facts of your case.
Can I Fight a DUI on a Bicycle?
Yes. Just like with any DUI case, you have legal options. The police must have a valid reason to stop you and must follow the correct procedures. Your attorney can investigate how the stop was handled, whether the tests were performed properly, and whether your rights were violated in any way.
Depending on the circumstances and your criminal history, you may also be able to negotiate for reduced charges or alternative penalties, such as pretrial diversion programs.
Is It Common for Police to Arrest Cyclists?
While DUI arrests involving bicycles are not as common as car-related DUIs, they do happen. Officers often make arrests when a cyclist is visibly impaired and creating a danger on the road. Riding a bike while drunk is not a legal loophole to avoid DUI laws in Florida.
Even if an officer decides not to arrest you for DUI, you could still face other charges, such as disorderly intoxication or public endangerment, especially if your behavior puts others at risk.
Contact the Miami DUI lawyers at Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers for more help
If you were injured in an accident involving a bicycle-related DUI, getting legal advice from a qualified attorney is one of the best steps you can take. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you evaluate your legal rights and options, working toward a favorable outcome. Get in touch with an attorney today for a free consultation.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Miami, FL and need legal help, contact our Miami DUI lawyers at Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers
20900 NE 30th Ave Suite 715
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191
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