Georgia’s DUI laws apply to far more than just traditional motor vehicles. Many Atlanta residents use scooters, golf carts, and e-bikes for quick trips, neighborhood travel, or commuting around town. However, what many people don’t realize is that operating these smaller, low-speed vehicles while impaired can still lead to a DUI charge.

At the Law Offices of Thomas J. Thomas, we help Atlanta residents understand their rights when facing DUI charges involving any type of vehicle. Here’s what you need to know.

Georgia’s Broad Definition of “Vehicle”

Georgia law defines a “vehicle” as any device by which a person can be transported on a highway—except those powered by human effort alone. Because scooters, e-bikes, and golf carts are powered by electric or gas motors, they fall under this definition.

This means you can be charged with DUI even if you’re not behind the wheel of a car or truck.

DUI on Scooters in Georgia

Electric scooters are now common throughout Atlanta, especially in busy areas like Midtown and Downtown. Even though they are small and lightweight, they are considered motor-driven vehicles.

If you operate a scooter with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drugs, you may face:

• Fines
• Possible jail time
• License suspension
• A criminal record

DUI on Golf Carts

Golf carts are frequently used in residential communities, golf courses, and some local roads. If the golf cart has a motor—which most do—you can be charged with DUI while driving it.

Police often issue DUI charges for golf carts when someone is riding around a neighborhood or community event after drinking. Even if you think you’re staying off major roads, the same DUI laws still apply.

DUI on E-Bikes (Electric Bicycles)

Electric bicycles operate partially or fully on electric power, which makes them different from standard bicycles. Because they are motor-assisted, e-bikes are treated similarly to scooters under Georgia law.

If you’re impaired while riding an e-bike—whether using pedal-assist or full electric mode—you may face DUI penalties just as if you were operating a car.

Penalties Are Similar to a Standard DUI

Whether you’re driving a car, scooter, golf cart, or e-bike, DUI penalties in Georgia may include:

• Fines of hundreds or thousands of dollars
• Probation
• Mandatory DUI school
• Community service
• License suspension or revocation
• Jail time for repeat or serious offenses

A DUI conviction can impact insurance rates, employment opportunities, and future background checks.

Why These Charges Surprise So Many People

Many people assume small, slow, or recreational vehicles are exempt from DUI laws. Unfortunately, this misunderstanding leads to unexpected arrests—often during leisure activities, holidays, or neighborhood events.

The safest rule: If it has a motor, don’t operate it while impaired.

Charged With DUI on a Scooter, Golf Cart, or E-Bike in Atlanta?

A DUI involving one of these vehicles can feel frustrating or unfair, but you still have the right to defend yourself. Police may make assumptions, misread the situation, or stop someone without proper cause.

At the Law Offices of Thomas J. Thomas, we help Atlanta residents navigate DUI charges and protect their legal rights every step of the way.