Operating a vehicle while intoxicated in North Carolina can result in serious consequences, including fines, probation, and jail time. While cars, golf carts, and four-wheelers are considered vehicles, other modes of transportation like horses are not. In North Carolina, you cannot be charged with a DWI while riding a horse, but you can be charged while riding a bicycle.

While horses are not considered vehicles in North Carolina, bicycles are included in the definition of “vehicle” under state law. This means that riders of bicycles are subject to the same DWI laws as drivers of motor vehicles. However, devices designed for mobility impairment are not considered vehicles under the law.

In North Carolina, it is illegal to drink in a parked car or be above the legal limit while in the driver’s seat with the engine on, even if you are not driving. This means that even if you pull over to sleep in an empty parking lot after realizing you are intoxicated, you can still be charged with a DWI if the engine is on and you are in the driver’s seat.