Biking while intoxicated will no longer be treated as a DUI in Wichita.
A new ordinance has created a separate category to charge cyclists who get behind the handlebars while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The City of Wichita considers bicycles to be a vehicle—but the State of Kansas does not.
Wichita Police Chief Deputy Jose Salcido says the inconsistent definitions made it difficult for Wichita law enforcement to charge cyclists with a DUI.
“Riding a bicycle while under the influence of drugs is still a public safety issue," he told City Council members Tuesday. "The intent of this new ordinance is to hold them accountable for that action.”
Bicycling Under the Influence is a misdemeanor charge that carries up to a $500 fine and a possibility of 6 months in jail. It won’t appear as a DUI on a person’s driving record.
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