Can you get a DWI on a scooter in Texas? It sounds like a silly question, but with so many scooters popping up in cities around Texas, it’s an increasingly common one. So before you decide to scooter under the influence, let’s take a few minutes to discuss the possibilities of a DWI by way of an electric scooter.
Can you get a DWI on a scooter in Texas?
Technically, yes.
You can get a DWI on a scooter in Texas. This has a lot to do with the definition of operating a motorized vehicle (which we’ll get to in a second). This definition is extremely loose and can be interpreted in a million different ways. But one thing that’s for certain is that you definitely can get a DWI on an electric scooter, this includes any of the scooter-sharing services such as Bird Scooters and Lime Scooters.
What is the definition of operating a motorized vehicle?
Of course, the definition of operating a motorized vehicle does not specifically reference scooters or electric scooters. However, its definition is so vague that it could expand to include scooters.
For one, “operating” does not mean you actually have to drive a vehicle. Don’t buy it? Take a look at these articles: Can you get a DWI in a parked car? (Spoiler alert: Yes you can.) and Can a drunk passenger be charged with a DWI? (Spoiler alert: Also yes).
Still don’t buy it? Well, get ready to get nice and familiar with DWI fines in Texas.
And when it comes to defining what a “motorized vehicle” is, things get even more blurry. A motorized vehicle is defined “as a device in, on, or by which a person or property is or may be transported or drawn on a highway, except a device used exclusively on stationary rails or tracks.” In other words, a motorized vehicle can be a whole mess of things.
If you can get a DWI on a bike, a boat, Vespas, or ATVs, then it stands to reason that getting a DWI on a scooter is entirely possible.
Long story short: Don’t scooter under the influence.
After a few hours at the bar, you probably want to do the right thing and not drink and drive. So if you walk outside and spot an electric scooter, your first instinct might be to hop on and scoot all the way home. But before you do that, think about what you’ve just read and remember this: Don’t scooter under the influence.
Tell your DWI charges to scoot on over
DWIs can stay on your record for quite some time and really mess up your chances of landing or keeping a quality job. Just take a look at this post: How long does a DWI stay on your record?
And if you find yourself in hot water over a drunken night on an electric scooter, you’ll need an experienced law firm to help you defend your rights and sort things out. If you or a loved one got caught scootering while intoxicated, then don’t hesitate to contact Thiessen Law Firm by calling 713-864-9000 or scheduling a free consultation online.
Because no matter what, we’re here for you… and your scooter.
