Fact brief: Can you get a DUI while riding a horse in South Dakota?
No.
There’s a specific South Dakota law that exempts driving under the influence charges for anyone intoxicated while riding an animal, bicycle, tricycle or any non-powered pedal mechanism.
In 2006, then-Gov. Mike Rounds signed the exemption into law stating a bike or horse is a better alternative than someone drinking and driving home.
Other states still consider a bicycle or horse a vehicle under DUI laws. In 2023, North Dakota reduced the penalty for riding a bike or horse while under the influence to a $200 fine.
This fact brief responds to conversations such as this one.
Sources
• South Dakota Codified Law, 32-23-22
• National Public Radio, South Dakota drinkers should take bikes or horses home
• North Dakota Legislature, House Bill 1506
South Dakota News Watch partners with Gigafact to publish fact briefs that refute or confirm a claim with supporting information and additional evidence and context.