Driving Under the Influence on a Motorcycle

No matter what the vehicle you are driving, police, and the courts take driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol very seriously. It is unfair to assume that just because a person is operating a smaller vehicle such as a motorcycle that no harm might come to the general public. In fact, driving any vehicle under the influence constitutes a serious threat to public safety and will not be taken lightly by the courts.

The New Laws

Alberta has new laws. Enacted in September of 2012, Bill 26 reduced the allowed blood alcohol content from .08 to .05. For most people this will amount to 1 – 2 drinks before driving. However, people can reach this limit with much less depending on gender and body size. Police like to stress that you should drive to your abilities and never over what the determine blood alcohol content is under the law.

For some this new law has come as a surprise. Though ignorance is no excuse in the eyes of the law, it might be possible to navigate a more lenient sentence if you retain a qualified DUI lawyer in your area.

Motorcycle vs. Car

In the eyes of the law there is no difference, and as such the sentencing and fines will be identical no matter what you were driving. The best way to avoid lengthly jail terms or heft fines is to hire a lawyer familiar with the court system who will work hard to fight for your rights.

Contact Us

If you’ve been charged with a DUI while operating a motorcycle, it’s important that you retain the counsel of a qualified DUI lawyer in Grande Prairie. Slaferek Calihoo is here to help. Contact us now.