Most people associate DUI arrests with cars, trucks, or motorcycles. But under Florida law, you can be arrested for DUI on a bicycle—and the penalties may surprise you.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re pedaling under the influence in the Sunshine State.
⚖️ What the Law Says: Bicycles Count as Vehicles
Under Florida Statute § 316.193, a person is guilty of DUI if they are:
Driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle
While impaired by alcohol or drugs, or
With a BAC of 0.08% or higher
Florida law defines bicycles as vehicles under most traffic regulations. That means DUI laws apply—even if your vehicle has two wheels and no motor.
🚫 Yes, you can be arrested and charged with DUI for riding a bike while impaired.
🚨 What Happens If You’re Stopped?
Police can stop you for erratic biking, weaving, or unsafe behavior. If they suspect you’re under the influence:
You may be asked to perform field sobriety tests
You can be arrested and taken into custody
You may be asked to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test
Refusal may result in license consequences under implied consent rules
🧠 What Are the Penalties for a Bicycle DUI?
DUI on a bicycle is prosecuted just like DUI in a car. Penalties may include:
Fines starting at $500
Probation up to 12 months
Mandatory DUI school
License suspension (even though you weren’t driving a car)
Community service
Jail time, especially for repeat offenders
🔁 If you have prior DUIs, a bicycle DUI counts as another offense and can enhance your sentence.
🛑 Collateral Consequences
Beyond the criminal penalties, a bicycle DUI can impact:
Your driving record
Auto insurance premiums
Professional licensing (nurses, teachers, CDL holders)
Immigration status, for non-citizens
Even without a car, the consequences can follow you for years.
🛡️ Fort Lauderdale DUI Defense for Bicycle Arrests
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve defended clients charged with DUI while riding bikes, scooters, golf carts, and more. These cases are highly fact-specific—and we fight aggressively to reduce or dismiss the charges.
We challenge:
Whether the stop was lawful
Whether the officer had probable cause
Whether BAC or impairment evidence is admissible
Whether the vehicle qualifies under Florida law
🛡️ Fort Lauderdale DUI Defense for Bicycle Arrests
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve defended clients charged with DUI while riding bikes, scooters, golf carts, and more. These cases are highly fact-specific—and we fight aggressively to reduce or dismiss the charges.
We challenge:
Whether the stop was lawful
Whether the officer had probable cause
Whether BAC or impairment evidence is admissible
Whether the vehicle qualifies under Florida law
🔍 More Answers About Getting a DUI on a Bicycle in Florida
❓ Can you really get a DUI on a bicycle in Florida?
Yes. Florida DUI laws apply to bicycles because they’re defined as vehicles under state traffic laws.
❓ Will I lose my driver’s license?
Possibly. Even though you weren’t driving, a bicycle DUI can trigger license suspension under Florida’s implied consent laws.
❓ Is a bicycle DUI a felony?
Usually not. A first offense is a misdemeanor, but it can be enhanced if you have prior DUI convictions.
❓ Can I refuse a breath test on a bicycle?
Yes, but refusal may lead to a license suspension—just like in a motor vehicle DUI.
❓ Should I hire a lawyer for a bicycle DUI?
Absolutely. These cases can affect your record, license, and insurance—and a lawyer may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed.