Can You Get a Dui on a Horse?

Can You Really Get a DUI for Riding a Horse While Intoxicated?

Driving under the influence (DUI) laws prohibit operating motor vehicles while impaired by alcohol or drugs. But what about riding a horse? Can you get a DUI on a horse? The short answer is yes, it is possible to get a DUI for riding a horse while intoxicated in some states. Keep reading to learn more about drunk horseback riding laws.

In most states, DUI laws apply to operating any vehicle while impaired, not just cars. The legal definition of a “vehicle” is broad enough in some states to include horses. So riding a horse drunk could potentially result in a DUI charge.

However, there are a few factors that determine whether a drunk horseback rider can be charged with a DUI:

• The state’s legal definition of a “vehicle” – in states where horses are considered vehicles under the law, a DUI is possible. In other states, horses do not fall under DUI statutes.
• Where the riding occurred – often DUI laws only apply on public roads, not private property. Riding drunk in a pasture likely wouldn’t warrant a DUI.
• The rider’s level of impairment – most states require evidence of significant impairment for a DUI conviction. Just having a couple drinks before riding may not reach that threshold.
• The rider’s behavior – evidence of reckless riding or endangering others is more likely to result in a DUI charge.

While unusual, there are instances of people being charged and even convicted of DUIs for riding horses while drunk. Here are some examples:

• In 2008, a man in Colorado was convicted of a DUI for riding his horse home while heavily intoxicated. The court ruled his horse was a “vehicle” under the law.
• A North Carolina woman was charged with a DUI for riding her horse on a public roadway with a BAC of .25 – over 3 times the legal driving limit.
• In Texas in 2013, a man was arrested for drunkenly riding his horse through a Walmart parking lot and fighting with police.
• In 2019, an Amish buggy driver in Michigan was charged with a DUI after crashing his horse-drawn buggy into a parked car with a BAC of .21.

So while unusual, drunk horseback riding can sometimes result in DUI charges, depending on the circumstances and local laws. Riders who stay on private property and avoid reckless behavior are unlikely to face DUI penalties. But riding drunk in public where others could be endangered carries serious legal risks in some states. Before saddling up after drinking, it’s best to think twice and consider potential consequences.

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Frequently Asked Questions About DUIs on Horses

Can you get a DUI on a horse in every state?

• No, some states exempt horses from DUI laws or restrict DUIs to motor vehicles only. Riding a horse drunk is legal in some places.

What determines if a drunk horseback rider gets a DUI?

• The state’s definition of a “vehicle”, location the riding occurred, level of impairment, and reckless behavior are factors. Riding drunk on private property is less likely to warrant a DUI.

Is riding a horse on a public road while intoxicated a DUI?

• In many states, yes – horses on public roads may fall under DUI laws, especially if the riding is reckless. But in some states it’s still legal if done responsibly.

Can an Amish person get a DUI on a horse and buggy?

• Yes, in states where horses are “vehicles” under the law. There are cases of drunk Amish buggy drivers charged with DUIs.

What if my horse gets loose and roams around while I’m drunk?

• Simply letting your horse get loose would unlikely warrant a DUI. But if you rode the horse in public while pursuing it, you could potentially get a DUI.

Conclusion:

Riding a horse while intoxicated may constitute a DUI in some states if the horse is considered a “vehicle” under the law. However, legal precedents and enforcement remain spotty. Riders are most likely to face charges if riding drunk in public areas where others could be endangered. On private property or rural trails, a DUI is unlikely if riding responsibly. Use good judgment before saddling up after drinking, and know your state’s laws to avoid potential legal complications. While an entertaining idea, getting a DUI on a horse is a real risk in some circumstances.