Bicycle DUI Laws in Indiana
Last reviewed by BikeSize EditorialThis guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change - verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
The rule
In Indiana, the standard DUI statute applies to bicyclists. Ind. Code § 9-30-5-1 and § 9-30-5-2 apply to anyone who operates a 'vehicle,' and § 9-13-2-196 defines vehicle to include bicycles. A bicycle OWI (operating while intoxicated) carries the same statutory penalty range as an auto OWI - a Class C misdemeanor on a first offense with up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine - although the mandatory licence suspension only attaches if the rider holds an Indiana licence. See Ind. Code § 9-30-5-1 (Operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or more).
Statute
What this means in practice
Riding a bicycle while impaired is a real legal exposure in Indiana. If you've been drinking, the safer move is to walk your bike, take transit, or call a ride.
Ride sharp, ride legal
Run a 60-second pre-ride safety check
DUI, impairment, and distraction laws all assume you are riding a bike that is actually safe to ride. The M-check takes a minute and catches the things that get you hurt.
See the M-check guide