Florida Motorcycle Handbook 2009

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3. Being in Shape to Ride

• 3.1. Why Information is Important
• 3.2. Alcohol and Other Drugs in Motorcycle Operation
• 3.3. Alcohol in the Body
• 3.4. Alcohol and the Law
• 3.5. Minimize the Risks
• 3.6. Step in to Protect Friends
• 3.7. Fatigue

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ALCOHOL AND THE LAW

In most states, a person with a BAC of .08 or above is considered intoxicated. It doesn't matter how sober you may look or act. The breath or urine test is what usually determines whether you are riding legally or illegally.

Your chances of being stopped for riding under the influence of alcohol are increasing. Law enforcement is being stepped up across the country in response to the senseless deaths and injuries caused by drinking drivers and riders.

CONSEQUENCES OF CONVICTION

Years ago, first offenders had a good chance of getting off with a small fine and participation in alcohol-abuse classes. Today the laws of most states impose stiff penalties on drinking operators. And those penalties are mandatory, meaning that judges must impose them.

If you are convicted of riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you may receive any of the following penalties:

• License Suspension - Mandatory suspension for conviction, arrest or refusal to submit to a breath test.
• Fines - Severe fines are another aspect of a conviction, usually levied with a license suspension.
• Community Service - Performing tasks such as picking up litter along the highway, washing cars in the motor-vehicle pool or working at an emergency ward.
• Costs - Additional lawyer's fees to pay, lost work time spent in court or alcohol-education programs, public transportation costs (while your license is suspended) and the added psychological costs of being tagged a "drunk driver."

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