Every August, the streets of Sturgis transform into a roaring sea of chrome and leather — and if you’re making the ride this year, you are not alone. But here’s what you won’t find on the event flyers: South Dakota doesn’t loosen its laws just because it’s Rally week. You must still follow the rules like anywhere else, and if you don’t, you could leave with more than just souvenirs.
DUI charges are common, and they don’t go easy on tourists
Between free beer at casinos, drinks flowing on Main Street and late-night rides back to camp, it’s easy to lose track of what you’ve had. Law enforcement knows this — and they show up in full force, especially during Rally season.
You might think you’re okay to ride, but if an officer pulls you over and sees signs of impairment, a DUI charge can follow fast. Refusing a breath test won’t automatically cost your license unless you have a commercial license, but the state will still file charges and move forward with prosecution. And just because you live elsewhere doesn’t mean local enforcement will treat you any differently.
Marijuana possession still leads to arrests, even if you bought it legally
If you are visiting from Colorado or another state where marijuana is legal, don’t assume the same rules apply here. South Dakota still treats possession as a criminal offense, and every Rally brings in visitors who only learn that after they land in a cell. Even a small amount can trigger charges that follow you across state lines — and if officers find it in your vehicle, they can stack on additional penalties.
It doesn’t matter how or where you got it. The law still says it’s illegal here, and if you are caught with it, you will face the consequences.
Group rides attract attention, and sometimes, a traffic stop
There’s nothing like cruising in a pack down the Black Hills, but large groups tend to draw attention. Officers watch for aggressive riding, loud pipes, lane violations or anything that stands out. One risky move can lead to a group-wide stop, and things can escalate from there. If a police officer pulls you over, remember: you don’t have to answer every question, and you have the right to ask for a lawyer before saying anything else.
What to do if things go sideways
You didn’t come to Sturgis to deal with legal trouble — but if local police arrest or charge you while you are here, don’t try to talk your way out of it or wait until you’re back home. You’ll want to speak with a lawyer who understands how these situations unfold locally and can guide you through the next steps without making things worse. And if that’s the position you’re in, it’s worth reaching out to Kinney Law for the support you need to move forward. You can contact us online anytime.