Can You Get a DUI While Operating a Boat?

July 7, 2021 4:19 pm
Written by admingl
Categories: Criminal Defense | Drinking & Driving | Drugs | DUI | Florida Laws | Legal Advice | Practice Areas

We all know that driving a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in a DUI. But what about when navigating Florida’s waterways?

Turns out, the state has strict rules regarding the use of alcohol and other substances while operating a boat on open water.
With summer in full swing, boat parties and afternoon excursions on the water are commonplace. These outings often involve the use of adult beverages and other substances as residents look to kick back and relax.

Although it is not illegal for the owner of a boat to enjoy alcohol when out on the water, it IS illegal for the individual operating the boat to have a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) of 0.08 or higher. Under Florida statute 327.25, any individual operating a boat who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be charged with a BUI (boating under the influence).

This charge isn’t just limited to alcohol intoxication, and extends to the use of prescription medication, illicit drugs and other substances that may alter physical capability, cognition or perception.

If you have been charged with a BUI or have questions about the legality of drinking while boating, reach out to our firm for further assistance.

Tags: BAC, Boating, BUI, Intoxication

Categorized in: Criminal Defense, Drinking & Driving, Drugs, DUI, Florida Laws, Legal Advice, Practice Areas

This post was written by: admingl

Brevard County, Florida Lawyer

Many of the clients that we represent for criminal charges in Brevard County have no prior criminal record. Certain professions require special state or federal certification such as doctors, lawyers, nurses, private and public school teachers, state and federal law enforcement officers and members of the military. Individuals in these professions face special challenges after an arrest and prosecution.

Even if the charges are ultimately dropped, those indirect consequences can have a huge impact on the individual's career and future employment opportunities. Similar problems impact individuals working as defense contractors or who are required to carry a firearm or use a concealed weapons permit for their employment.

Even high school and college students can face serious immediate consequences to their education after an arrest or criminal accusation. Our criminal defense attorneys work with these individuals to minimize both the direct and indirect consequences of an arrest and prosecution. We work with clients throughout Palm Bay, Rockledge, Titusville, Cocoa, West Melbourne, Indian Harbour Beach, and nearby areas.

The Florida criminal defense team at Germain Legal will zealously fight for their clients. We take an aggressive approach coupled with a meticulous attention to detail. We believe that by filing and litigating all viable motions we can often negotiate a better resolutions to the case or force the prosecutor to drop the charges. Florida law provides for important protections by filing motions to exclude evidence, motions to suppress statements, and motions to dismiss criminal charges.