Can I get a DWI while operating … a horse and buggy?

It’s an interesting question. What exactly defines a DWI or DUI? Most people know that if you are driving impaired in a vehicle, you’ll be convicted of these types of charges.

Would someone be charged of a DWI/DUI while operating a horse and buggy though?

It appears to be that way in some states.

Horse and Buggy DWI/DUI Incidents

In New York, a 17-year-old boy had an open container of beer while operating a horse-drawn buggy. Police chased him down after he took off when they tried to stop him. The teen was charged with unlawful possession of an alcoholic beverage while being underage, among other offenses.

In Pennsylvania, an Amish man was arrested on drunk driving charges while he was sleeping in his buggy. His BrAC level was .018, more than twice the nationwide limit of .08.

Although DUI means Driving Under the Influence, states may consider people riding impaired on a horse-drawn buggy as operating, or driving, a ‘vehicle’ anyway. In any case, travel on public roadways while intoxicated is a dangerous choice, no matter which mode of transportation you choose.

Even using a wheelchair while intoxicated can mean a DUI, or riding a horse by itself.

All states have different regulations when it comes to impaired driving. Some even have different acronyms, such as OWI. In addition, some states will use DUI for one meaning, and DWI for another. We cover what DUI/DWI means in a previous blog that might clear these definitions up.

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