West Palm Beach DUI Attorneys often talk about the numerous celebrities that have been arrested for driving under the influence in recent years, but Attorney Andrew Alitowski recently challenged me to determine the identities of the first famous drunk drivers.

Attorneys have seen people charged with DUI in Palm Beach County for operating lawn mowers and go-carts, but it has been some time since we have seen a charge for riding a horse while impaired. This is likely to be the first form of transportation that citizens used following the consumption of alcohol.  Famous historical figures were well known for being big drinkers. The cause of death of Alexander the Great is unknown but many have theorized that he died of alcohol poisoning. Regardless of what killed old Alex, the consensus is that he indulged liberally in alcohol. Further, this consumption undoubtedly led to many rides on horseback while under the influence. Similarly Attila the Hun also allegedly died from alcohol poisoning (on the night of his marriage). Regardless of the true determination of death, Attila did consume alcohol in copious amounts and was rarely off the back of a horse. Like Alexander, it can be safely assumed that Attila the Hun often rode a horse while under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, in ancient Rome many chariots must have been powered by an intoxicated driver, the equivalent of our celebrity race car drivers today.

If you have a question about DUI history, contact Attorney Andrew Alitowski at our Palm Beach County Office and we will get you the answer.