While DUI arrests most often involve standard motor vehicles, an unusual incident in Florida has drawn attention for involving a much less typical mode of transportation: a riding lawn mower. Though this event occurred outside Illinois, it underscores an important legal principle that applies within this state, namely, that DUI laws can extend to nearly any motorized vehicle operated on public roadways. For individuals in Illinois, understanding how these laws apply is crucial to avoiding criminal charges and protecting one’s driving privileges. If you are facing a DUI charge in Illinois, it is vital to speak with an experienced DUI defense attorney who can assess the facts of your case and identify possible defenses.
The Florida Tractor DUI Arrest
It is reported that Florida law enforcement recently arrested a man who was allegedly driving a lawn mower while intoxicated on a busy highway. The incident occurred on Suncoast Parkway at approximately 8:30 a.m., when multiple calls were made to the Florida Highway Patrol regarding an individual erratically operating a lawn mower along the roadside.
Allegedly, when a trooper arrived at the scene, the individual was found sitting on the mower along the highway shoulder. It is alleged that the trooper observed several indicators of impairment, including pinpoint pupils, flushed skin, a dry mouth, and irritation on the interior of the individual’s nose. The individual reportedly exhibited additional symptoms such as excessive sniffing, spitting, and throat clearing during the interaction.
It is further alleged that the trooper attempted to administer a field sobriety test, which the individual refused to complete despite multiple attempts. After becoming uncooperative, the individual was arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI). He was later booked into the Hernando County Jail and released on bond.
Reportedly, this is not an isolated event in Florida. Similar incidents have occurred in prior years, including the arrest of individuals operating lawn mowers or other non-traditional vehicles such as ATVs and bicycles while under the influence. In one such case, an individual with multiple prior DUI convictions was reportedly driving a mower down a highway and admitted to having consumed alcohol before refusing sobriety testing. In another case, a rider was found transporting a case of beer on a mower while registering a blood alcohol concentration allegedly three times over the legal limit.
DUI Laws in Illinois and Their Application to Non-Traditional Vehicles
Illinois law, like Florida law, provides a broad definition of “vehicle” for the purposes of DUI enforcement. Under the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/11-501), it is unlawful for any person to drive or be in actual physical control of any vehicle within the state while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating compounds. The term “vehicle” includes any device capable of transporting a person or property on a highway, which may encompass not only cars and trucks but also golf carts, ATVs, bicycles, and potentially even riding lawn mowers if operated on public roadways.
In Illinois, a person is presumed to be under the influence of alcohol if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or greater. However, an individual may still be charged with DUI even with a lower BAC if other evidence of impairment exists. This evidence may include erratic driving, physical signs of intoxication, failed field sobriety tests, or admission of alcohol consumption.
Additionally, Illinois is an implied consent state, meaning that drivers who are lawfully arrested for DUI are deemed to have consented to chemical testing. Refusal to submit to such testing results in an automatic statutory summary suspension of the individual’s driving privileges, although this suspension may be contested through a hearing process.
The operation of any motorized vehicle, even a riding lawn mower, in areas open to public vehicular travel can subject the operator to DUI enforcement. Courts in Illinois have upheld DUI charges in cases involving unconventional vehicles, provided that the operation occurred in a location where traffic laws apply. As such, intoxicated operation of a motorized lawn mower on a public highway could result in criminal penalties, including fines, license suspension, and incarceration.
Talk to a Skilled Illinois DUI Defense Attorney
If you are facing DUI charges in Illinois, regardless of the type of vehicle involved, it is imperative that you seek experienced legal counsel. Theodore J. Harvatin of the Harvatin Law Offices, PC, is a knowledgeable and committed Illinois DUI defense attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the most favorable outcome possible. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact Mr. Harvatin at (217) 525-0520 or use the online contact form.