Boating is a fun and exciting activity, especially in beautiful places like South Florida. The wind in your hair, the sunshine on your skin, and the sound of water beneath you can make for a perfect day. But when it comes to drinking alcohol and operating a boat, things can quickly take a dangerous turn. It's important to understand the risks and laws to stay safe on the water. While it is legal to drink alcohol while operating a boat, just like driving a car, it is illegal to do so with a blood alcohol level of .08% or higher.
Alcohol Consumption is a Leading Cause of Boat Accidents
One of the most common contributing factors to boating accidents is alcohol use. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission reports that 23% of boating fatalities in Florida can be attributed to boating under the influence. Impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and reduced coordination are just some of the ways alcohol or drugs can turn a great day on the water into a devastating tragedy. Other causes of boating accidents include operator inexperience, becoming distracted (put that cell phone down), speeding, lack of proper safety equipment, and ignoring navigational rules. By recognizing and addressing these risks, and avoiding excess alcohol consumption while operating a vessel, you can reduce the chances of an accident and injuries on the water.
What Is BUI?
BUI stands for Boating Under the Influence. Just like a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) on land, a BUI is when someone operates a boat while they’ve been drinking alcohol to excess or taking illegal drugs. In Florida, it is legal to drink and operate a boat, but it's illegal to do so with a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you're caught boating under the influence, you can face serious penalties, including fines, losing your boating license, and jail time.
What Are the Implications of Boating Under the Influence?
Boating under the influence doesn’t just break the law; it unnecessarily puts innocent lives at risk. Alcohol makes it harder to steer the boat, properly communicate, and react to emergencies. It also increases the risk of falling overboard, which can lead to drowning. Boating while intoxicated can ruin a fun day and turn it into a tragedy.
Here in South Florida, we’ve seen firsthand the dangers of boating under the influence. One of the most well-known cases was the tragic death of MLB pitcher Jose Fernandez. Fernandez was operating a boat at high speed while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine. The accident not only claimed his life but also the lives of two other passengers. This heartbreaking and entirely preventable crash is a stark reminder of the consequences of boating under the influence. Sadly, it is a story that repeats itself as seen in recent boating accidents where alcohol consumption was also a critical contributing factor.
Stay Safe and Responsible
If you’re planning a day on the water, plan to stay safe. Pick a designated sober boat operator, just like you would with a car. It used to be legal in Florida to drink and drive a car. Some liquor stores even had drive throughs where you could buy alcohol, mixers and get a free cup of ice with a stirrer. Times changed and most states, including Florida, cracked down on DUIs. As part of this effort drinking alcohol while driving a motor vehicle on land-even if you were not intoxicated, was made illegal. Operating a boat is as dangerous as driving a car, in some ways it is even more so. With the increase in boat ownership in South Florida, there has been an increase in boating accidents. Do your part and drive (your boat) sober. South Florida’s waterways are meant to be enjoyed, but safety comes first. By staying responsible, you can ensure a fun, memorable, and safe boating experience.
Contact Mase Seitz Briggs Today
Boating under the influence can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and legal trouble. Learn from tragic cases like Jose Fernandez’s and prioritize safety for yourself and others on the water. Make sound decisions before stepping onto a boat, because one good choice can save lives.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, you deserve justice and compensation for your suffering. Our experienced maritime attorneys understand the complexities of boating accident cases and are dedicated to fighting for your rights. We have handled countless cases representing boating accident victims. Don’t wait, time is critical in these cases. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.