E-biker arrested for DUI in Colorado's high country, serving as important reminder for cyclists

It's important for cyclists to remember that it is, indeed, possible to get a DUI while cruising around on two-wheels. A recent situation that unfolded in Colorado's Summit County is a reminder of this reality.

According to the Summit County Sheriff's Office, a deputy observed a man on an e-bike swerving across the road and into the oncoming lane of traffic. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and the bike rider agreed to roadsides, proving unable to complete them as a sober person would.

The e-biker was arrested for 'driving under the influence' and taken to the local detention facility. Tests at the facility reportedly revealed that his blood-alcohol level was close to twice the legal limit of what it needs to be to legally operate a vehicle.

Per Colorado law, a 'vehicle' is defined as a device that's capable of moving a person or property from one place to another, per the Law Office of Steven J. Pisani . This means that items like bicycles, scooters, and probably even rollerblades would be considered a 'vehicle' in the Centennial State, thus operators of those items would be subject to DUI laws. It's also important to note that while 0.08% blood alcohol content can mean arrest for DUI, a lower blood alcohol content between 0.05% and 0.08% can constitute 'driving while ability impaired,' per a report from Colo Bike Law . Both charges can come with criminal penalties.

So there you have it – while many people seem to view biking or utilizing electric scooters as a 'safer option' while out barhopping, drinking enough to push blood alcohol above legal limits and operating a bike or scooter can still lead to big legal troubles – and of course, this can lead to serious injury, as well.

Think twice before you drink and ride and if you end up on your bike somewhere but get too intoxicated to make the return trip home, call an Uber. Some Ubers may even have the ability to bring a bike along for your trip, but even if the less ideal 'leaving the bike locked up'-move is the only option, it's still better than getting in trouble with the law. Go back for your bike the next day.

Editor's Note: All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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