April 9, 2012
Gill Cochran, famed DUI Attorney from Cochran, Cochran and Chhabra in Annapolis, Maryland, says everyone knows that drinking and driving isn’t safe, and that there are laws in place to prevent people from driving under the influence. But, Mr. Cochran says, few people realize that the same strict ‘operating a motor vehicle while under the influence’ penalties apply when driving motorized Barbie car, a riding lawnmower or even a horse.
“People don’t know how widely DUI and DWI laws apply,” said Mr. Cochran. “In my many years practicing law, I’ve seen some pretty unusual arrests.”
“Driving while under the influence of alcohol – whether it’s a wheel chair, a Cruizin’ cooler or a motorized bar stool – isn’t legal,” Mr. Cochran said. “In Maryland, if you are charged with this crime, you will be forced to defend yourself in court and comply with onerous conditions to avoid going to jail. Even if you were on a motorized La-Z-Boy.”
To help keep Marylanders safe, Mr. Cochran compiled a list on what the law considers to be a motorized vehicle, so drivers can avoid being stopped for driving under the influence, even if what they are driving was made for 3-year-olds.
- The Riding Lawnmower
- Motorized Wheelchair
- Zamboni
- Motorized Barstool
- Three-Wheeled ATV
- Motorized La-Z-Boy
- Horse
- Barbie Power Wheels
- Tricycle
- The Cruizin’ Cooler
- Kayak
- Raft
- Unicycle
- Toboggan
- Hang glider
- Forklift
- Balloon
- Catamaran
- Elephant
- Camel
“Being convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol can result in harsh penalties, including ignition interlock devices, loss of driving privileges, and possible prison time,” said Mr. Cochran. “The easiest and most obvious way to avoid DUI charges is to not drink and drive. A designated driver is another great option.”
“If you have any alcohol to drink, know that your reaction time is slowed and that you are putting yourself and others at risk if you then get behind the wheel of anything that moves,” Mr. Cochran added. “If you have any doubt about your capacity, don’t drive – even if it’s a Barbie car.”
For media inquiries or interviews, please contact Karen McGagh at 443.632.4217
