Boating Under the Influence-This is a Crime

Posted Thursday, August 1, 2019 by Andrew Charles Huff

Summer time in Washington means more boats out on the water…and many times this includes enjoying an alcoholic beverage while on the waves. But like driving a car, if you are stopped for Boating Under the Influence you will face gross-misdemeanor charges same as a DUI. This means that you can face up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 penalty. However, unlike a regular DUI, there is no driver’s license suspension and you have no obligation to take a breath test.

Here are important points about Boating Under the Influence:

A BUI conviction does not require carry mandatory jail time or fines

A BUI conviction does not carry a driver’s license suspension.

A Boating Under the Influence conviction does not have an ignition interlock requirement.

After an arrest for Boating Under the Influence arrest, a refusal of a breath or blood test at the police station can carry a civil fine between $1000 and $2,050.

Although Boating Under the Influence is different from a DUI charge, you should never take an arrest lightly because it is a criminal conviction that will appear on your record.

When you are out on your water craft, police must have probable cause to stop and conduct an investigation on your boat, including during the emphasis patrols that occur on Lake Washington, Lake Union, and Puget Sound around Seafair Weekend.

If you are stopped and arrested for Boating Under the Influence, call my office immediately and let’s discuss your case. I have handled many of these cases and all successfully. Just remember to always be safe out on the water.