One of the perks that comes with cycling is freedom. Anyone, no matter age, shape or size, can hop on a bike and pedal off into the sunset.

However, like with most things in life, the wheel comes full circle in regards to the law.

It’s common knowledge that driving under the influence of alcohol can land a motorist with hefty fines and possible jail time. But most people don’t know it’s also illegal to cycle under the influence.

California Vehicle Code section 21200.5 prohibits riding a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or both.

A BUI, bicycling under the influence, can cost upwards of $200, and is considered to be a misdemeanor. That means, an innocent drunk ride home can result in a life-long criminal record.

It might seem like a safer alternative, but riding a bike under the influence of any kind of alcohol, drug or narcotic can be just as life threatening as driving a car under the influence.

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, Bicycle fatalities increased 7 percent from 116 in 2011 to 124 in 2012.

Alcohol seriously impairs reaction time, and there is no other situation where a cyclist needs to be aware and able to react to their surroundings than while sharing the road with cars that can weigh up to a ton.

Alcohol also impairs judgement. What may seem like a daring, fun weave through traffic while under the influence, can actually be a death trap.

This is an important time for cyclists. The activity is gaining major traction and more people are looking at bicycles as healthy alternatives for transportation.

The last thing the cycling community should do is give critics more ammunition.

There is never justification for operating any mode of transportation while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It’s life-threatening, and no night out for drinks is worth your life, the life of others or the life of your bicycle.

So the next time you’re hitting up Midtown or throwing a couple of drinks back at a friends house, thnk twice before you decide to ride your bicycle. It may not be a car, but it can do just as must damage.

It’s safe to say buzzed cycling is drunk cycling.

Safe Rides is a free lift service for Sacramento State students, faculty and staff operating from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday.