Boating Under the Influence
Definition:
Boaters need to understand the risks of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BUI). State laws make it illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This law applies to all boats, such as canoes, jet skis, water skis, rowboats, large vessels, yachts, ships, foreign vessels on U.S. waters and U.S. vessels operating on the high seas. If a boat operator has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10% and above, he/she is more likely to die in a boating accident than a sober boat operator.
Consequences of Boating Under the Influence:
When a boat operator is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their peripheral vision and focus are impaired. The inner ear can be impaired, making it impossible to determine direction. Reaction time is also decreased. For these reasons, if the Coast Guard charges you with boating under the influence, you may be arrested, detained and turned over to local authorities. Fines not less than $250 may apply for a first conviction and $500 for a second conviction. You may also be sentenced to prison for 6-9 months.What a Lawyer can do for you:
Contacting an experienced BUI lawyer is important if you have been convicted of boating under the influence. BUI lawyers are knowledgeable in dealing with these types of criminal cases and utilize defense strategies so that the outcome is favorable. A BUI lawyer can give you options and offer you aggressive representation so that your fines and prison sentences are reduced or waived.Lawyer Referral Service:
If you have been convicted of a BUI and need proper representation, Attorney Search Network can help. Contact us today and we can help you find a BUI lawyer in your area who can justly represent you in your boating under the influence case.
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