Can You Get a DUI on a Horse in Minnesota?

Posted by Brodie Hacken on Jan 1, 2025

No, you cannot get a DUI for riding a horse while intoxicated in Minnesota. Under Minnesota law, a DUI applies only to motor vehicles, defined as self-propelled vehicles or those powered by electricity from overhead wires. A horse, as a living animal, does not meet this definition. However, this does not mean that riding a horse while intoxicated is without consequences.

What Minnesota Law Says About DUIs and Horses

Minnesota’s DUI statute is specific to motor vehicles. According to Minnesota Statute §169A.20, a motor vehicle is any vehicle propelled by its own power. This excludes horses from being categorized as motor vehicles under the law. As a result, you cannot legally be charged with a DUI while riding a horse in Minnesota.

 

Legal Risks of Riding a Horse While Intoxicated

While you cannot be charged with a DUI, riding a horse while intoxicated in Minnesota may still result in other legal consequences, including:

• Public Intoxication: Depending on the circumstances, you could be charged with being intoxicated in public if your behavior poses a risk to public safety or creates a disturbance.
• Animal Cruelty: If your intoxication causes harm to the horse or places it in danger, you could face charges related to animal neglect or cruelty.
• Reckless Endangerment: If your actions while intoxicated endanger others, you could face charges for creating a hazardous situation.
• Harm to the Horse: Poor handling could result in injury or exhaustion for the horse.

Riding a horse while under the influence of alcohol may not meet the criteria for a DUI, but it is still risky and could lead to serious consequences.

 

The Dangers of Riding a Horse While Intoxicated

Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination—all critical skills needed to safely handle a horse. Horses are highly sensitive animals that rely on clear, confident signals from their riders. An intoxicated rider increases the risk of:

• Accidents: A lack of control over the horse could result in injury to the rider, the horse, or others nearby.
• Startling the Horse: Erratic behavior by an intoxicated rider may frighten the horse, leading to unpredictable movements or runaway incidents.

 

 

Can You Be Arrested For Being Drunk on a Horse?

One question that often arises is whether it’s possible to be arrested for riding a horse while intoxicated. The short answer is no. In Minnesota, DUI laws apply to motor vehicles. The legal definition of a motor vehicle includes those which are self-propelled vehicles or powered by electricity from overhead trolley wires. State laws do not cover vehicles which are fully powered by human action.

Horses, unfortunately or fortunately depending on your perspective, do not fit this description. Therefore, you cannot be charged with a DUI for riding a horse or horse drawn buggy while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

However, it’s essential to remember that while you may not face DUI charges, other legal consequences might apply. For instance, horseback riding while drunk could create a disturbance and lead to an arrest for disorderly conduct. Plus, if your intoxicated riding results in an accident causing property damage or personal injury, you could be held liable for those damages.

 

Alternatives to Riding a Horse While Intoxicated

If you’ve been drinking, consider these safer alternatives to avoid putting yourself, your horse, or others at risk:

1. Designate a Sober Rider: Ensure someone capable and sober is available to handle the horse.
2. Seek Alternative Transportation: Use a car service, taxi, or a designated driver to get home safely.
3. Plan Ahead: Make arrangements for your horse’s care before consuming alcohol.

 

Vehicles You Can Get a DUI While Operating

To clarify, DUI charges in Minnesota apply to a wide range of motor vehicles, including:

• Cars
• Trucks
• Motorcycles
• ATVs
• Snowmobiles
• Boats

If you operate any of these vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you risk facing serious penalties.

 

 

Penalties for a DUI Charge

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Minnesota can be severe and include:

• Jail time
• Fines
• Loss of driving privileges
• Ignition interlock device requirement
• Increased insurance premiums

It’s essential to understand that even a first-time DUI offense can have long-lasting consequences. The penalties will increase if you are arrested for a second DWI and for subsequent drunk driving cases.

If you’re facing DUI charges, it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side to help you build a strong defense and minimize the potential penalties.

 

Expert Legal Guidance From Gerald Miller, P.A.

Understanding the nuances of Minnesota DUI laws is critical, especially when unusual situations arise. With decades of experience, Gerald Miller, P.A. has successfully handled thousands of DUI-related cases. Our team is well-versed in Minnesota law and dedicated to providing clear, reliable guidance to our clients.

If you’ve been charged with an offense related to public intoxication or reckless behavior, we are here to help. Contact Gerald Miller, P.A. today at (612) 341-9080 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

 

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