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BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE (BUI)
Every boater needs to understand the risks of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BUI). It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state. This law pertains to all boats, from sailboats to the largest cruisers.
Alcohol Effects
- Alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination. It increases the
likelihood of accidents.
- The effect of alcohol is even more hazardous on the
water than on land. The motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind and spray of
the boat accelerate a drinker's impairment.
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- The effect of alcohol can also be more dangerous to boaters. Boat operators
are often less experienced and less confident on the water than on the highway.
Recreational boaters don't have the benefit of experiencing daily boat
operation. In fact, boaters average only 18 days (average of 6 hours/outing) on
the water per year.
- Alcohol creates a physical sensation of warmth that may prevent a person in
cold water from getting out before hypothermia sets in.
- Passengers are also at greatly increased risk for injury and death -
especially if they are also using alcohol.
Moreover, alcohol is a stressor and significantly increases the effects of other conditions related to being out on the water (sun, wind, fatigue, etc.) These conditions significantly compound the effects of alcohol and drugs. Passengers who are drinking should be especially encouraged to wear life jackets.
Florida Law
- It is a violation of Florida law to operate any vessel while under the influence of intoxicants or drugs.
- In Florida, a vessel operator is presumed to be under the influence if their blood or breath alcohol level is at or above .08.
- BUI is punishable by fines up to $2,500, imprisonment of up to one year, non-paid public service, and mandatory substance abuse counseling.
- The law provides for mandatory sentencing.
- If a convicted of BUI that caused death or serious bodily injury to another person, the penalty is up to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Zero Tolerance
No person under the age of 21 may have a measurable blood alcohol concentration (0.02 or higher), or be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs to a degree which impairs his or her ability to safely operate a boat.
Implied Consent
Operation of a vessel on Florida waters implies consent to testing for the presence of alcohol or drugs. Refusal to submit to testing is punishable by a $500 civil penalty and is a crime if you have refused previously.
Leave the Alcohol at Home
Nearly 3 out of 4 boaters boat without alcohol. They find the water more enjoyable and less stressful without alcohol. Be part of the next generation of boaters who don’t make alcohol a part of their day on the water.
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