Snow Plow DUI in California?

A California man is facing charges for drinking and plowing. South Lake Tahoe police say 55-year-old Steve Beattie took out a light and traffic sign while driving a front end loader on Ski Run Boulevard.

When police tried to stop him, officers say he drove the loader towards a patrol car attempting to hit the officer inside while making an obscene gesture.

The officer was able to back his car up and escape.

Eventually Beattie was apprehended when he drove the tractor into a dead end street. However, he did not exit the loader right away even after several commands were shouted from the police.

Beattie is charged with driving under the influence, assault with a deadly weapon, and attempting to evade police as he put up a struggle once he exited the tractor.

Police say he admitted to using illegal drugs and conducting snow removal work with no sleep for several days.

It is advisable to contact an experienced California DUI attorney if you are arrested or cited for driving any vehicle (including a tractor) under the influence of alcohol.