CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Cycling Under the Influence

Cycling Under the Influence: What You Need to Know

If you have been accused of cycling while under the influence in Los Angeles, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your options. However, staying calm and understanding your position is critical to building a solid defense. In this article, we discuss the charges and laws related to cycling while under the influence, the possible penalties you could face, and potential defense strategies that can help you avoid a criminal conviction.

Understanding the Charges & Laws

When you are charged with cycling while under the influence, it means that you were allegedly operating a bicycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on a public street, bike lane, or path. It’s essential to note that the bike must not have an engine, and human power should exclusively drive it.

It’s vital to know this distinction as you may face different charges if there’s an engine attached to your bike. If there is, you may face a speeding ticket or driving under the influence (DUI) charges. As such, understanding the specific charges against you is crucial to building a solid defense.

Learning About the Penalties

When you are facing cycling under the influence charges, you may feel like the penalties aren’t significant compared to a DUI. However, a misdemeanor charge on your record can have severe consequences. Besides the damage to your reputation, you may face hefty fines or a license suspension of up to one year.

The fine associated with a cycling under the influence charge can be up to $250, which may not include court fees or other expenses resulting from the case. However, you should note that you may still have to attend DUI school, which can be an added expense.

Understanding Possible Defenses

Building a compelling defense strategy is crucial in securing favorable outcomes in court. Although fighting a cycling under the influence charge may appear impossible, several strategies could work in your favor. Here are some potential defenses you can use:

– Challenging witness testimony: The arresting officer often provides a testimony to indicate that you were cycling erratically. Through cross-examination, rebuttal witnesses or detailed evidence showing the cause of the erratic movement can challenge their testimony.

– Arguing a faulty stop: If the officer lacked probable cause to stop you, like swerving or visible signs of impairment, then the court may throw out the charges or evidence altogether.

– Arguing lack of impairment: Just because you were arrested doesn’t mean you were impaired. Providing evidence or arguing that your cycling style isn’t an indication of impairment can be an effective strategy.

Hiring An Experienced Legal Team

When you are facing cycling under the influence charges, you need an experienced legal team on your side. An experienced lawyer can assess your case and make the possible choice for you. Moreover, attorneys understand the intricacies of California law, so they can help you navigate the various legal options available.

Our trained and experienced legal team has the knowledge and expertise to help you build a strong defense. We will take a look at your case with a keen eye, examine each possible defense strategy, and let you decide how you want to proceed. Our commitment to detail ensures that we never overlook critical evidence or elements that could impact your case positively.

Conclusion

If you’re facing cycling under the influence charges, arrest, or investigation in Los Angeles, it’s essential to know what you’re up against. Staying calm and understanding the gravity of the charges can help you build a solid defense strategy. It’s also important to work with an experienced legal team that has the knowledge and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of California law.