Build A Strong Defense To Protect Your Rights

Ryan Kolbeck

Potential penalties for getting a DUI on a motorcycle 

You likely look forward to hitting the open road if you ride a motorcycle, especially as the weather gets warmer. While there’s plenty of beautiful landscape to enjoy as you ride through South Dakota, there’s also something to remember – if you choose to drink and ride, you may face serious legal consequences. 

While you may think riding a motorcycle intoxicated isn’t the same as a traditional passenger vehicle (or any other vehicle), this isn’t the case. If you are charged and convicted of drunk driving, you face several penalties. Knowing what these are will help you see why it’s best to avoid drinking and driving. 

Mandatory DUI class

If you are convicted of DUI, you may be required to attend an alcohol education course. Usually, these classes last for eight hours per day over a weekend. This means you won’t be able to enjoy your bike during these times or do anything else you enjoy. 

Installation of ignition interlock devices

Depending on the penalties issued by the court, it may be necessary to install an ignition interlock device on your motorcycle or another vehicle that you drive. With this machine, you must blow into it before the vehicle starts. You will also have retests while you are riding, which means you must pull over to blow into the device again to keep the motor running. 

License loss

The most common DUI punishment is to lose your license. It may be revoked or suspended. If you don’t have a license, it’s illegal to ride your bike, which is disappointing for most motorcyclists. 

The best way to avoid issues when it comes to riding your motorcycle  — or any other vehicle — is to avoid drinking and riding. However, if you do get arrested for DUI while riding, you have rights. Knowing your legal options is a must. 

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