Is It Possible to Get A DWI in Minnesota As A Passenger?
By Sullivan Rice
If you happen to be out for a drink and find yourself in the passenger seat of a vehicle being driven by someone who is under the influence, you might assume that you're immune from a DWI charge. After all, you're not the one behind the wheel, so why should you face arrest? Handling DWI cases can be intricate and, at times, daunting, requiring a proficient and seasoned DWI defense lawyer to adeptly navigate the nuances of the legal system.
Minnesota’s DWI Laws
Fortunately, according to Minnesota law, a person must either be operating the vehicle or in physical control of it in order to be charged with drunk driving. Whether you're a passenger in someone else's car or someone else is driving your car, you need not worry about DWI charges.
However, there are rare instances when a passenger may be charged with aiding and abetting a DWI. This refers to assisting someone in the commission of a criminal offense, which can include planning a crime, providing assistance while the crime is being committed, or attempting to conceal the fact that the crime occurred.
For instance, if you're out with a friend, and you witness them consuming a significant amount of alcohol—or even encourage it—and they clearly exhibit signs of intoxication throughout the evening, if you choose to let them drive you home with little objection, you could potentially be charged with aiding and abetting a DWI. This offense carries the same penalties as a DWI.
“If you choose to let them drive you home with little objection, you could potentially be charged with aiding and abetting a DWI. This offense carries the same penalties as a DWI.”
However, as previously noted, this is an infrequently pursued charge because there must be clear evidence that you were actively trying to encourage your friend to consume enough alcohol to exceed the legal limit and commit a DWI offense. Due to the challenges in establishing such intent, the risk of being charged with a DWI as a passenger is extremely low.
Achievement Shouts Louder Than Words
The outcomes are a testament to their expertise. Jack Rice Defense proudly showcases a well-established history of triumphs in managing DWI cases in Minnesota. Their unwavering dedication to securing the most favorable results for their clients is evident in the multitude of dismissals, reduced charges, advantageous plea bargains, and even successful jury verdicts. When selecting an attorney to advocate for you in a DWI case, opting for one with a track record of attaining positive outcomes can greatly enhance the likelihood of a favorable resolution.
Jack Rice is s a nationally known criminal defense attorney, a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, a former prosecutor and a former CIA Officer. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227.1339. When your life is on the line, Jack Rice Defense.
