Riding a bicycle through Ocean City, Maryland, lets you fully experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also get a great workout by using a bicycle. However, when it comes to riding a bike under the influence of alcohol or drugs, lots of bad things can happen.
The dangers of impaired cycling
While it might seem harmless to be tipsy or drunk on a bicycle, you can cause more damage than you think. Besides the obvious risk of injuring yourself while riding a bike under the influence, you can also risk the safety of other bicyclists, drivers, properties and pedestrians.
Maryland’s view on vehicles
Driving a car and riding a bicycle are two very different activities. However, since a bike is a type of vehicle, Maryland’s motor vehicle laws apply to people on bicycles. These laws also cover e-bikes and motorized scooters. One of this state’s laws makes it illegal to operate any vehicle while under the influence or intoxicated from drugs, alcohol or a combination of both.
Even if you’re not in a car, you still carry the risk of getting a DUI or DWI on a bicycle. In Maryland, DUIs and DWIs may involve paying fines, spending time in jail or both. A DWI charge in this state can cost up to $500 and mean spending up to two months in jail. A DUI charge in Maryland can cost up to $1,000 and carry a sentence of up to one year behind bars.
Don’t believe that operating a bicycle after using drugs or alcohol is a safe move. If at all possible, it’s safer to stay inside until your intoxication wears off.