Going green may mean ditching a full-sized vehicle and getting a moped or scooter to get around the Twin Cities. Keep in mind that driving a smaller single-rider vehicle does not make you immune to getting cited for traffic offenses.
Any propelled vehicle is subject to the same laws as motor vehicles. This means that you should operate your scooter with the same care and regard as you would a car. What happens if you go drinking and then hop on your scooter? Find out what the law says about operating a scooter while intoxicated.
What is a DWI in Minnesota?
Under the Minnesota statutes, driving while intoxicated means that a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are over 21 and your blood alcohol reads at .08 or higher, you may face DWI charges. If you are under 21 with any alcohol in your system, you may still face charges as Minnesota has taken a zero-tolerance stance regarding underage drinking.
How does a scooter fit the law?
Bikes and scooters that you operate with your feet do not fit the definition of a motor vehicle under the guidelines. Thus, your vehicle should have an independent conveyance system, such as an engine. Mopeds and sit-down scooters qualify as vehicles under this definition.
Facing a DWI regardless of the vehicle may prove costly in many ways. There are defenses available to you, even if you do get caught drinking while operating your scooter.
