You can get a DUI on a motorcycle. If you are operating a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can receive a driving under the influence charge. At this point, hire a DUI lawyer serving Los Angeles to help you contest this charge before it leads to a conviction.
The consequences if you get a DUI on a motorcycle are similar to those if you are driving a car while under the influence. A lawyer can review your DUI charge and prepare a legal defense for you. If your attorney’s argument is successful, they could get your charge reduced or eliminated.
When Can You Get a DUI on a Motorcycle?
You can get a DUI on a motorcycle if you are operating your vehicle above the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit. In California, it is against the law to ride a motorcycle if you have a BAC of 0.08% or higher if you are over 21 years old or 0.01% or higher if you are under 21. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can further define a dangerous blood alcohol level for you.
The police can arrest you for driving under the influence if you show signs of driving impairment. For instance, you swerve in and out of traffic or make other erratic movements while you ride your motorcycle. Based on these, a police officer can pull you over, which could result in a DUI charge.
Regardless of why you receive a DUI on a motorcycle, treat your charge seriously. Have a lawyer represent you in your driving under the influence case. Otherwise, you risk a conviction that could stay with you for the rest of your life.
What Penalties Can You Get for a DUI on a Motorcycle?
The penalties you get for a DUI on a motorcycle depend on whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony. A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, but being convicted of either has consequences. Here are some of the penalties you can receive if you are convicted of driving under the influence while riding a motorcycle.
Jail or Prison Sentence
With a first-time misdemeanor conviction, you can get a jail sentence of up to six months. For a second or third misdemeanor conviction, you may be subject to up to one year in jail. Along with these, the penalty for a felony DUI in California can include up to three years in prison, with an extended sentence if you cause people to get hurt or killed.
Fines
If convicted of a misdemeanor, you could be fined up to $1,000 for a first, second, or third offense. A misdemeanor conviction of DUI that causes an injury can result in a fine of up to $5,000. Those convicted of a felony can receive a fine of up to $10,000.
Probation
Your probation may last three to five years. The length of your probation varies based on your age, level of intoxication, and other factors relating to your charge. A Los Angeles DUI attorney can discuss what formal probation and information probation are with you and explain if either of these are viable alternatives to jail time and other harsh penalties in your case.
License Suspension
According to Section 9 of the California Driver’s Handbook, you could have your license suspended for up to one year if you are convicted of driving under the influence. Following a second DUI conviction, you can lose your license for up to two years. For three or more convictions, you can have your license revoked for up to five years.
Your lawyer can help you avoid these and other penalties. To do so, they will gather evidence to support your argument. They will also develop a legal strategy designed to prove you should not be punished for a DUI on a motorcycle.
What Should You Do if You Get a DUI on a Motorcycle?
Let a DUI attorney serving Los Angeles represent you. Your lawyer will advocate for you and protect your rights throughout your legal proceedings. They will provide tips and recommendations on how to defend against your charge, such as:
- Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Request a hearing within 10 days of your arrest, or the DMV will suspend your license.
- Collect proof. Request a police report and get other evidence to build a compelling argument.
- Find witnesses. If anyone saw your arrest, contact them so they can provide a firsthand account of the incident.
- Stay off social media. Avoid publishing photos, videos, or other content about your case on social media since the prosecution may find and use them against you.
If you feel overwhelmed by the legal process, share your concerns with your lawyer. Together, you and your attorney can prove you were not riding a motorcycle while under the influence. Your lawyer can also keep you updated on plea agreements, and if you receive one, discuss the proposal in detail with you.
Get Legal Help with Your DUI on a Motorcycle Charge
You may be surprised that the police charged you with driving under the influence. The charge will remain in place unless you decide to do something about it. Fortunately, a lawyer can dispute your charge and put you in a great position to disprove the prosecution’s case against you.
Simmrin Law Group has decades of legal experience. Our DUI lawyers treat our clients like family, and we will do everything in our power to help you with your case. Schedule a consultation with our attorneys.