Bill would mean no more DUIs on bicycles, horses

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – A invoice launched on the legislature about bicycles and horses may quickly make a small however important distinction for some individuals in North Dakota.

Because the regulation at present stands, bicycles and horses are thought of automobiles in North Dakota state regulation. Home Invoice 1506 would change that.

Though that may not seem to be an enormous deal, it might imply individuals would not have the ability to be charged with driving below the affect whereas driving a bicycle or horse whereas intoxicated.

“With the pressure and impact of regulation, we’re discouraging people from driving a automotive drunk whereas concurrently punishing them for rationally selecting a low-risk different transportation within the type of a bicycle,” mentioned Jesse Walstad, legal professional with the ND Affiliation of Prison Protection Attorneys.

The Freeway Patrol testified in opposition to the invoice. They gave a number of examples of intoxicated individuals driving bicycles obstructing site visitors, together with one occasion the place a drunk bicyclist did not observe the principles of the highway and died.

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