Drinking and skating don’t mix.
But if you’ve ever wondered what the legal repercussions of skating while intoxicated are, read on.
Can you get a DUI on a skateboard?
What will happen if you’re skating while you’re drinking?
Does the law treat skateboards the same as motorbikes and vehicles when it comes to drunk driving?
Here’s what you need to know.
Can You Get a DUI on a Skateboard?
The simple answer to this is: it depends.
Firstly, it depends on where you live. Some states specifically include skateboards in a more general list of “vehicles.”
So, if you’re caught drunk riding a skateboard, that’s bad news for your record.
Secondly, it depends upon the officer. In some cases, the cop who “pulls” you over will have enough common sense to realize that skating is different from driving.
They would probably rather see you skate safely home than get behind the wheel.
You may get off with just a verbal warning.
Finally, it depends upon you. Are you acting belligerent and causing trouble?
Or are you just practicing your nosegrind in the park?
Public intoxication is no joke, and you can get a serious fine and even some jail time.
It’s not quite drunk driving but it’s still against the law.
Put simply, you can a DUI on a skateboard, technically.
Is it likely, well…
If you’re just minding your own business, and doing no harm to pedestrians and other vehicles, probably not.
What Should I Do if I’m Caught Drinking and Skating?
Let’s face it, it’s not uncommon for a group of friends to hang out in the skate park with a couple of beers.
But if circumstances have led to police intervention, you’ll need to know what to do.
If you’re in a state that allows roadside sobriety tests or breath sample tests, you have the right to refuse.
For some people, roadside sobriety tests are tricky as not everyone can stand on one leg!
If you feel that you’ll blow a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit in your state, consider refusing that, as well.
We’re not lawyers and can’t offer you legal advice for drinking and skating.
What we can recommend is that you remain calm and respectful, and that you have a witness nearby if possible.
Conclusion: The Law on DUIs and Skateboards
We can’t tell you what to do if you’ve been caught drinking and skating.
You likely won’t have a horrible interaction with law enforcement if this happens.
Keep calm and comply within reason, and you’ll likely be just fine.
If you need further information about skateboarding and DUIs, read the frequently asked questions below.
Can I Serve Jail Time for Drinking And Skateboarding?
Again, this depends on the situation.
Know the laws about public intoxication in your state.
You can be fined hundreds of dollars and even spend several weeks in jail. If you’re not familiar with the law, it’s best to leave the beer in your fridge at home.
Is My Skateboard Considered A Vehicle?
In most areas of the United States, you can find a list of codes and laws online.
In most cases, you’re considered a pedestrian when you’re riding a skateboard.
However, some states do consider your board a vehicle, and drinking while operating your skateboard can carry heavy penalties.
Can Police Take My Skateboard?
It is highly unlikely that the police will confiscate your skateboard. In rare cases, and if there is a crime involved, they can do just that.
If this does happen to you, be sure to ask for a receipt for your skateboard.
Unless the board will be used as evidence in a trial, you can fairly easily get your board back at the local police department.
