If you’re one of the many Minnesotans who likes to get out on the ice and fish during the winter season, you’ve probably enjoyed the recent run of cold weather we’ve had. Drilling holes and watching tip-ups can be a great way to spend a winter weekend in Minnesota, and because you don’t need a boat or to load your vessel back on your trailer at the end of the day, many ice fisherman consume alcohol when they are out on the ice. If you’re not careful, this can create a dangerous situation, and it can also result in drunk driving charges. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at avoiding DUI charges when ice fishing this winter.
Ice Fishing DWI
As we mentioned in the introduction, it may seem like it’s pretty difficult to earn a DWI while ice fishing since you’re not fishing from a boat. While that aspect is true, odds are there are vehicles involved throughout the course of your ice fishing voyage, and if you drink too much when you’re on the ice, you can be hit with a DUI.
Remember, Minnesota’s drunk driving laws don’t just apply to cars, trucks and boats. You can also earn a DUI on an ATV, UTV, side-by-side, 4×4 or snowmobile, so if you’re using an ATV to zip back to the cabin or to haul your auger back to the garage when the day is done, you could be arrested for DWI if you do so while you’re over the legal limit.
The northwoods may give the appearance of freedom from the watchful eye of Johnny Law, but game wardens and other law enforcement officials still patrol most frozen lakes with regularity during ice fishing season, and they’ll likely see you before you see them. Always be sure that anyone operating a normal vehicle or recreational vehicle during your ice fishing adventure is under the legal limit.
The same goes for your trip home at the end of the day. While towing ice fishing equipment or a portable shanty behind your truck isn’t probable cause in and of itself for a police officer to pull you over and check to see if you are sober, they certainly may keep a more watchful eye on your driving behavior, and if they spot any type of infraction, they may be justified to conduct a traffic stop and learn more about your mental state.
Winter activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling and skiing can be a great way to pass the time during the cold Minnesota winters, but it would be smart to wait until you’re done for the day before adding alcohol to the mix. Don’t get a DWI on the ice or on your way back home because made a poor decision to drink and drive. However, if you or someone you know ends up in legal trouble after a day on the ice, make sure they contest the charges with the help of an experienced DWI attorney. A DWI on a snowmobile or ATV will lead to restrictions on your normal driving privileges, which will likely greatly complicate your life. Instead, connect with an attorney who can help you avoid a worst case scenario and restore some normalcy to your life.
For more information, or for help with a different criminal matter, reach out to the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
