Yes, You Can Get a DUI on a Horse

You’re driving down the street and notice something is slightly out of place with the person riding a horse next to your car: that there’s a person on a horse next to your car. If you live in an area where you are allowed to ride a horse on paved roads, then the horse might be considered a vehicle once it is in motion on a highway or other street. This also means that if you are drinking and riding on a horse, you can potentially be charged with a drunk driving offense. You can get a DUI on a horse.

The definition of a “vehicle” can vary from state to state. Some states can charge or convict you for a DUI on a bicycle or roller skates, for example. It is not uncommon, in fact, for a person who has already been convicted of driving drunk to attempt to use a different “vehicle” in order to get around a license suspension or ignition interlock requirement. What many people don’t understand is that a drunk rider on a horse is just as dangerous as a drunk driver in a car or truck: both are making dangerous decisions that can be deadly, especially when there are other cars, vehicles and even pedestrians on the road.

As unbelievable as it may seem, a DUI on a horse or any other four-legged friend is possible, and if convicted, you will face the same penalties and consequences as a DUI in an automobile. Instead of attempting to find a way around your license suspension, ignition interlock requirement or other reasons for using your horse to get around while you are intoxicated, take the time to consider calling a taxi or sober friend. Not only can you save yourself the sigma of a DUI on a horse, but, your horse will be grateful for your careful consideration of his or her feelings, as well.