Bicycle DUI Laws in Louisiana
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 Louisiana, the DUI statute does not apply to bicyclists — it covers motor-vehicle operators only. Louisiana's DWI statute (La. R.S. 14:98) applies to operators of a 'motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, vessel, or other means of conveyance.' Louisiana courts have consistently held that the residual 'other means of conveyance' clause does not reach bicycles, and a cyclist cannot be charged with DWI in the state. Public-intoxication and disturbing-the-peace charges remain available for impaired riders. See La. R.S. 14:98 (Operating a vehicle while intoxicated).
Statute
What this means in practice
A DUI charge isn't on the table for cyclists in Louisiana, but that's not a license to ride drunk — public-intoxication, reckless-conduct, and disorderly-conduct charges can still apply, and cycling impaired dramatically raises crash risk.
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