Bicyclists throughout California are expected to follow many of the same rules as other drivers. This includes regulations related to the usage of alcohol or drugs. In fact, you can even be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) while riding a bicycle.
Find out more about bicycle-related DUIs right here with the Simmrin Law Group. Find out how this charge is prosecuted and review the results of a conviction. Get help reviewing legal methods to handle a DUI on a bicycle by calling (310) 896-2723.
Review the Definition of Biking Under the Influence
You may hear biking under the influence called cycling under the influence (CUI) in California. CUI charges are prosecuted under Vehicle Code Section 21200.5 in the state of California. According to VC 21200.5, you can get a DUI while riding a bicycle if:
- You ride on a bicycle
- While on a highway AND
- While under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Note that California uses the term “highway” to refer to any road that is available for public use and that is publicly maintained. This means that most roads throughout the state are considered highways. Additionally, bicyclists on sidewalks can also face CUI charges.
CUI Charges and Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) in California
In many DUI cases, drivers will be arrested if their BAC exceeds the legal limit set by the state. Generally, drivers in California are expected to keep their BAC below 0.08% when operating a vehicle. These regulations vary slightly with CUI charges.
VC 21200.5 does not set forth a specific BAC level for bicyclists. Bikers can be charged if they are considered impaired by a law enforcement officer. In fact, officers are not even required to complete a BAC test for bikers suspected of committing a CUI.
Note that you are legally allowed to request a BAC test if you are accused of a CUI. If you request a BAC test, the officer will have to carry out the assessment. You could be offered a:
- Blood test
- Breath test
- Urine test
The results of a BAC test could demonstrate that you were not under the influence of alcohol while riding a bike. Find out more about the uses of a BAC test in California by calling a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles at (310) 896-2723.
Results of a CUI Conviction in California
CUIs are treated as misdemeanors by the court system in California. However, the penalties for a CUI conviction are relatively minor as compared to other DUI charges. You could face fines of up to $250 if you are convicted of a CUI and you are over 21.
Individuals under 21 can face additional penalties. These drivers may:
- Have their license suspended for one year
- Face a one-year delay in getting their license if they do not yet have one
You should not face jail time if you are convicted of a CUI in the state of California. Note that you could face additional charges associated with a CUI accusation. For example, bikers accused of drinking may be charged with being drunk in public in some situations.
Get Assistance with CUI Charges in Los Angeles
The professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can help if you are accused of biking under the influence in California. Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles are ready to begin working on a strong defense for you quickly after an arrest.
We can offer you comprehensive legal assistance with your case. You can rely on us to:
- Help you handle questioning by prosecutors
- Assess any plea bargains you are offered
- Thoroughly investigate the facts of your case
- Work to block evidence against you
- Take steps to get your charges dismissed
You can improve your odds of resolving a CUI charge in California by getting professional assistance as soon as possible after an arrest. Our lawyers can work to argue that you were stopped without cause by a police officer, or that the police officer did not follow procedures during your arrest. Find out more by contacting us today.
A Legal Professional Can Help with CUI Charges
You can get a DUI while riding a bicycle in California. Fortunately, you can also get help handling CUI charges by reaching out to a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles. Focus on your legal defense by contacting the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group now. Just fill out our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723 to get started.
You can reach out to our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles now to get a FREE case evaluation.