Can you get a DUI on an electric scooter?

On Behalf of | Oct 25, 2018 | Firm News

Electric scooters have made their way to Minneapolis. They can make for a convenient option to get around your city, and the law states that you can ride a scooter even after a night of drinking alcohol. 

In the court case of State v. Greenman, the court ruled that a Segway did not constitute as a motor vehicle. Instead, the court decided it was a “personal assistive mobility device.” Several factors need to be present for a vehicle to fall under this category, and a scooter certainly fits the definition. Although the law views scooters in the same plane as bicycles, there are still considerations you need to make before operating a scooter under the influence of alcohol

Other factors can lead to problems

When trying to operate a scooter while intoxicated, there is a serious risk that you will injure yourself. Your vision may not be optimal, and you could end up falling over and seriously injuring yourself. If this happens, then you need to see a doctor right away to treat your wounds. Additionally, you can still receive a citation if you ride the scooter in the street. You could cause traffic problems if everyone has to drive slowly behind you or if you drive erratically to where you are a danger to yourself. In this instance, the police would issue a citation for reckless endangerment. 

The law could change

Many city officials are not happy with the lack of regulation concerning electric scooters. San Francisco recently ran into trouble with these scooters when a dozen ride-sharing scooter companies descended on the city. The city had to temporarily ban scooters so that officials could come up with an ordinance to regulate the vehicles. As ride-sharing scooters become more prevalent across Minnesota, you should expect more laws to come forward on the issue. In the event that you do run into trouble driving any vehicle intoxicated, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance.