Driving an ATV is a favorite activity of many Minnesotans. Unfortunately, people sometimes mix ATVs and alcohol. When alcohol is present in your system while you are operating an ATV, you can be charged with a DWI. If you are facing ATV DWI charges in Minnesota, you need the help of an experienced attorney with a winning record.
Understanding ATV DWI Charges
Minnesota DWI law treats all motorized vehicles in a similar fashion. Whether you are driving a car or an ATV, you can face very serious penalties if you have alcohol in your system. Many people are unaware of the fact that impaired driving laws apply to ATVs. However, ignorance does not waive your requirement to follow the law.
Minnesota’s legal limit of .08 applies no matter what type of vehicle you are driving. If you are over this limit while driving an ATV, you can be charged with a DWI. A first-time ATV DWI is typically a misdemeanor that can lead to:
- 90 days in jail;
- $1,000 in fines;
- Loss of your ATV operating privileges; and
- Confiscation of your ATV.
The state’s aggravating DWI factors also apply to ATV usage. You can face greater charges if you:
- Have a blood alcohol level of .16 or higher;
- Have any passengers under the age of 16 on the ATV at the time of the offense; and
- Have a previous impaired driving conviction during the past 10 years.
When any of these aggravating factors are present, your ATV DWI charge will be elevated to a gross misdemeanor, which can result in a year in jail and $3,000 in fines. Additionally, your ATV may be impounded. Fortunately, you don’t have to face these charges alone.
ATV DWI Defense Lawyer
When you are accused of an ATV DWI, you need to contact a qualified defense lawyer immediately. With an attorney on your side, you can often get your DWI charges reduced – or even dropped. Your defense lawyer will gather the evidence necessary to build a case that will help you avoid the maximum penalties. If you choose to battle your charges alone, you may face significant jail time, fines, and the long-term consequences associated with an ATV DWI. A conviction can also lead to long-term effects that may impact your ability to get a job, or ever operate an ATV again.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you are charged with an ATV DWI, you need help. At the Brown Law Offices, P.A., we have assisted many clients in getting the best possible outcome for their impaired driving charges. Our attorneys work hard to build the case that will get you a favorable result. Don’t let an ATV DWI conviction affect your life. Call us today at 763-323-6555, or complete our online form for a free consultation.