Boating under the influence (BUI) is a serious offense in Florida, and it is important to understand the laws and regulations that govern drinking and boating. In Florida, the blood alcohol limit for boating is 0.08%, which is the same as the legal limit for driving under the influence (DUI).

Florida Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Law

Under Florida boating law, it is illegal to operate a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A vessel can include any watercraft, such as boats, jet skis, and canoes. A person is considered under the influence if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. This is the same BAC limit for DUI in Florida.

Penalties for BUI in Florida

The penalties for BUI in Florida are similar to those for DUI, and they can include fines, jail time, and license suspension. The severity of the penalties will depend on various factors, such as the driver's BAC level, the number of prior BUI or DUI convictions, and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of the BUI.

Here are some of the common penalties for BUI in Florida:

  1. Fines: The fine for a first-time BUI conviction can range from $500 to $1,000. For a second or subsequent conviction, the fine can be as high as $5,000.

  2. Jail Time: A first-time BUI conviction can result in up to six months in jail. A second or subsequent conviction can result in up to nine months in jail. If the driver's BAC was .15 or higher, or if a minor was in the vessel at the time of the BUI, the jail time can be increased.

  3. Driver's License Suspension: A first-time BUI conviction can result in a license suspension of up to one year. A second or subsequent conviction can result in a license suspension of up to five years. If the driver refused to submit to a chemical test, the license suspension can be increased.

  4. Probation: A BUI conviction can result in probation, which can include requirements such as attending alcohol counseling or refraining from consuming alcohol.

  5. Ignition Interlock Device: For a second or subsequent BUI conviction, the driver may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vessel. The IID requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before starting the vessel, and it will prevent the vessel from starting if alcohol is detected.

  6. Community Service: A BUI conviction can result in community service hours, typically ranging from 50 to 100 hours.

  7. Criminal Record: A BUI conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can impact future employment, education, and other opportunities.

In addition to these penalties, a BUI conviction can also result in increased boat insurance rates and difficulty obtaining future loans or credit.

Avoiding a BUI Criminal Charge in Florida

The best way to avoid a BUI criminal charge in Florida is to avoid drinking alcohol while operating a vessel. It is important to designate a sober driver or arrange for safe transportation if alcohol will be consumed during a boating trip. Boaters should also be aware of the signs of impairment and should avoid operating a vessel if they feel any effects of alcohol or drugs.

Boaters should also be aware of other safety precautions, such as wearing life jackets and ensuring that all required safety equipment is on board. Boating under the influence can be dangerous not only for the operator but also for passengers and other boaters on the water.

The blood alcohol limit for boating in Florida is 0.08%, which is the same as the legal limit for DUI. BUI is a serious offense in Florida, and it can result in severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. It is important for boaters to understand the laws and regulations that govern drinking and boating, and to make responsible choices when it comes to alcohol use.

If facing a BUI charge in Florida, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced BUI defense attorney who can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. It is also important to avoid boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs to prevent putting yourself and others in danger and facing the legal consequences of a BUI conviction. By following safe boating practices and making responsible choices, boaters can help keep themselves and others safe on the water.

How Our Florida Boating Under The Influence Defense Attorneys Can Help You

Individuals who are arrested for boating under the influence have a lot to lose. Not only do they risk incurring a criminal record, but they face possible jail time and thousands of dollars in fines. To make matters even worse, those arrested face losing their boating and driving privileges, and they may have a difficult time finding employment in some careers. If you are arrested and charged with BUI, it is imperative for you to contact a BUI defense attorney in Florida as soon as possible. 

Attorneys at Musca Law understand that a BUI charge can have a major impact on your life. For this reason, we are standing by to see how we can help you fight your charges and avoid fines and imprisonment. Boating under the influence charges can be just as serious as drunk driving charges, so it is imperative that those accused get the same exceptional level of legal representation.

With decades of combined legal experience, Florida BUI defense attorneys at Musca Law are dedicated to helping those accused fight their charges and protect their freedom. We understand arrests can happen at any time, which is why we are available 24-hours a day to take your call. If you were arrested for boating under the influence in Florida, contact our law firm as soon as possible at 1-888-484-5057 to schedule a free no obligation consultation to see how we can best serve you to meet your legal needs.