It is a criminal code offence to have a blood alcohol content of .08 while driving or controlling a motor vehicle. (File Photo/Dreamstime.com)

By Ronald Quaroni

Pedaling under the influence

No DUI for riding a bicycle while drunk but charges can be laid

Apr 10, 2019 | 12:52 PM

With temperatures and gas prices on the rise people might be tempted to hop on their bike a lot more, but after having a few drinks, is it legal to ride it?

According to SGI’s website, driving any motorized vehicle or vessel while your ability is impaired by drugs, alcohol or both, is an offence.

So while you might not get a criminal code charge for riding a bike impaired, Tyler McMurchy, manager of media relations with SGI advises against it.

“[It] can still be a dangerous if you’re riding a bicycle on public roads where there are other motorists,” McMurchy said.

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He added there are several other charges that might be laid against someone caught riding a bicycle drunk.

“You could be potentially be charged with public intoxication or stunting. There are also perhaps municipal bylaws that involve riding a bicycle recklessly,” McMurchy said. “So it is not a good idea to ride a bicycle while you are impaired.”

He added the best course of action is to find a safe ride home that doesn’t endanger yourself or others.

Sgt. Travis Willie with the Prince Albert Police Service said the messaging is simple for getting a safe ride home.

“Plan ahead. Whether it’s a sober driver, taxi cab, city transit, walking now that it’s nice out. I mean, there’s just no excuse,” Willie said.

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ron.quaroni@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @RonaldQuaroni