Open Container Law Exceptions

In almost every part of the country, it is illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a car. To legally transport an open container, such as an opened beer or an unsealed bottle of whiskey, the alcohol must be placed in a locked glove compartment, in the trunk of the car, or in another secure area of the vehicle that is inaccessible to the driver. If you are pulled over and are found to be carrying an open container in a way that doesn't comply with the above laws, you may be ticketed or arrested.

There are some exceptions to the general rule that prohibits possessing open containers in a vehicle. One major exception is that the open container law does not apply to the passengers of vehicles used for the commercial transportation of people. If you are riding on a bus or in a taxi or limousine as a passenger, you are allowed to possess and transport open containers of alcohol without risk of being ticketed or arrested. Another exception is for motor home occupants. Individuals who possess open containers of alcohol in the living areas of a motor home cannot be charged with having an open container.

Sometimes police officers confuse local laws and may ticket or arrest you when you have not committed a crime. If you have been ticketed or arrested for carrying an open container of alcohol on a bus, taxi, limousine, or motor home, you may have been wrongfully charged. Consider contacting a lawyer immediately to help you make the case that the charges and fines levied against you are incorrect.

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For sound legal advice and assistance with your open container charge, please contact experienced Rhode Island DUI defense attorney James Powderly today at 401-662-9006.