New York Snowmobiling While Intoxicated
If you or someone you know has been charged with snowmobiling while intoxicated, or SWI, call the experienced DWI lawyers at Nave DWI Defense Attorneys today. Our firm handles DWI and related cases exclusively, a focus that greatly benefits our clients. We have successfully defended countless New Yorkers against DWIs and related charges, including SWI. For more information on how Nave DWI Defense Attorneys’s skilled New York DWI attorneys can help you, contact us for a free case evaluation.
Snowmobiling is a popular winter sport, especially in New York. Each winter thousands of snowmobile enthusiasts travel to New York to enjoy the varied trails throughout the State’s beautiful regions. Before you head out on the trails on your snowmobile, however, you should be aware of laws concerning snowmobiling while intoxicated in New York.
New York DWI laws are some of toughest in the country. Like every other state, New York law defines the DWI intoxication level as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%. This means that a driver with a BAC level of 0.08% or more is legally intoxicated, and can be arrested for DWI (driving while intoxicated). There are many DWI-related charges that depend on the level of the driver’s impairment and the vehicle they are operating, among other factors. Notably, operators of boats, motorcycles, and snowmobiles can also run afoul of New York’s tough laws.
What Is SWI?
What does it mean to be charged with SWI? Essentially, one can be charged with SWI for operating a snowmobile in an intoxicated condition. That is, snowmobiling with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. Once charged, evidence will be presented against the driver to prove his or her intoxication. Intoxication can be proven through different types of evidence including BAC chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine), law enforcement’s observations, and other factors.
What Are the Penalties for SWI?
Like other DWI-related charges, snowmobiling while intoxicated can carry significant penalties upon conviction. For a first time conviction, SWI penalties may include:
- Misdemeanor conviction resulting in a permanent criminal record;
- A maximum fine of $500;
- Up to 90 days in jail; and
- 12-month suspension of snowmobiling privileges.
All snowmobilers should note that SWI is different than SWAI (snowmobiling while ability impaired). SWAI is similar to DWAI (driving while ability impaired) in that it applies to vehicle operators with a BAC lower than the intoxication standard. If a snowmobile operator has a BAC between 0.05% and 0.07%, they can be arrested and charged with a SWAI. Though SWAI penalties are less harsh than those for SWI, they may still include fines, jail time, and a suspension of snowmobiling privileges.
Snowmobiling, like many other outdoor activities, often coincides with alcohol consumption. This can lead to an arrest for SWI. Of course the best way to avoid SWI is to avoid drinking while snowmobiling. However, if you have been charged, it is important to contact an experienced SWI lawyer immediately. Your money, snowmobiling privileges, and freedom can be at risk after you have been charged. Skilled SWI lawyers, like those at Nave DWI Defense Attorneys, will help guide you through your legal options. Our dedicated team of attorneys will aggressively defend you against the SWI charge, and use our extensive knowledge of the New York system to help you. For a free case evaluation, contact us now.
DISCLAIMER: The exclusive purpose of this article is educational and it is not intended as either legal advice or a general solution to any specific legal problem. Corporate offices for Nave DWI Defense Attorneys are located at 432 N. Franklin Street, Suite 80, Syracuse, NY 13204; Telephone No.: 1-866-792-7800. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Attorney Advertising.
