DUI on a Moped or Scooter
Contrary to popular belief, moped and scooter drivers are required to have a valid driver’s license, especially if they are driving on frequented roads or major thoroughfares. Additionally, it is possible to be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) while operating one of these vehicles. Regardless of the mode of transportation being used, this crime is highly dangerous since it puts the lives of others at risk. For this reason, Illinois takes this crime seriously, with penalties including fines and jail time.
If you have been charged with driving under the influence while operating a moped or scooter, you may be confused. You may not have known that these vehicles are covered under Illinois DUI laws. Our Chicago DUI lawyers at O’Meara Law know that driving a moped or scooter while intoxicated can be a simple mistake. With over 20 years of courtroom experience, we can help present your case in the best possible light.
To see if your charges can be reduced or eliminated, call 312-909-0706 for a free consultation.
Understanding the Offense of DUI on a Moped or Scooter
In Illinois, the crime of driving under the influence is defined as driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. When you operate any motorized vehicle, excluding electric bikes, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of above .08 percent, you can be charged with a DUI. Intoxication by drugs is also illegal while driving.
Police have an array of tests that they use to determine whether or not you are intoxicated. In addition to a breathalyzer test, officers may ask you to participate in field sobriety tests, such as the walk and turn test. In this exercise, you may be asked to walk in a straight line for nine steps, turn, and then do the same thing in the other direction. If you wobble, miscount, fall, or fail to walk in a straight line, the officer may believe you are intoxicated.
Consequences of DUI on a Moped or Scooter
Perhaps the most devastating criminal consequence for driving under the influence is the statutory summary suspension of your driver’s license. Simply put, your license will be automatically suspended if your BAC is above .08 percent or if you refuse a breathalyzer test during your arrest. There is a six-month suspension for failing the chemical test and a one-year suspension for refusing the test entirely.
Other criminal consequences associated with DUIs include, but are not limited to:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Up to six months of imprisonment
If you are convicted of a DUI on a moped or scooter, you may face harsh collateral consequences when you are released from jail. For example, finding a job might be extremely difficult, as most employers completely avoid hiring those with criminal records. Your attempts to continue your education might also be cut short. In addition, you may not be able to receive loans and other types of scholastic financing.
How Attorney Michael O’Meara Can Protect Your Freedom
In a case involving driving under the influence, there are a number of defenses that can be used to eliminate or reduce your charges. For example, a lawyer may be able to prove that your rights were violated at the time of your arrest. If you were abused or not read your rights, it may be possible to get your charges thrown out.
No one expects to be charged with a DUI while riding a moped or a scooter. However, it does happen, and the crime is treated as if you were driving a car or another large vehicle. This charge is serious, and you need the help of an experienced Chicago DUI attorney to help secure your freedom. Attorney Michael O’Meara has the experience to disprove the charges against you.
Call 312-909-0706 now to see how you can protect your rights in the court of law.