(Newswire.net — March 18, 2022) — It’s the perfect day. You tow your boat out to the lake or ocean, remove the boat cover, and head out for a day of fun and relaxation on the water.
Millions of Americans enjoy their boats every day, but boating under the influence (BUI) can quickly turn the day upside down.
Learn more about boating under the influence below.
Boating Accidents And BUI
The rising number of boating accidents and deaths led to states passing BUI laws years ago. It’s estimated that 50% of boating accidents are related to alcohol and drug use, and alcohol is the #1 cause of fatal boating accidents. In addition, the Coast Guard says BUI crashes increase boating deaths by 35%.
No matter what type of watercraft you operate, it’s possible to be charged with boating under the influence. Like driving under the influence, penalties range from stiff fines to suspension of your boating license to jail time. BUI charges are extremely serious. If you are facing BUI charges, you should seek out expert legal help immediately from BUI Charge Attorney.
The Basics Of BUI
The Coast Guard says alcohol can be even more dangerous on the water than on the road. Some may think that the open nature of the water means it’s safer to drink when boating. But this isn’t true.
Drinking and operating a boat is just as dangerous because your judgment and reflexes are impaired. In addition, there are many things on the water that can cause accidents, such as other boats, objects in the water, docks, and more.
Boating accidents are often caused by overboard incidents and capsizing, and both are more likely when people are drinking.
Further, other factors on the water, combined with alcohol consumption, can affect your piloting abilities. The sun, heat, wind, glare, noise, and motion can give you boater’s fatigue. Combined with alcohol, your ability to pilot the boat safely is severely affected.
State and federal law enforcement can stop you in a boat, just like pulling you over on the road if they suspect you are drinking. Likewise, they can give a breathalyzer test if they think you’re under the influence.
In most states, the legal standard for BUI is the same as DUI – if your blood alcohol content (BAC) measures .08 or more, you are considered legally intoxicated and can be arrested.
Remember that it’s possible to be arrested for BUI even if your BAC is below .08. If the police think your ability to pilot the boat is impaired by alcohol, they still can charge you with BUI.
How To Stay Safe While Boating
When boating, the first thing to remember is not to drink if you’re piloting the craft. Many people would never consider drinking and driving, but maybe more at ease about drinking when boating.
If you have alcohol on the boat, make sure that the person behind the wheel isn’t drinking. There should also be someone else who is sober and can act as a lookout. It’s safer to have another person watch for other boats, objects in the water, people, etc.
Now that you understand how important it is not to drive a boat and drink, let’s examine several other essential tips to stay safe on the water:
Always Wear A Life Jacket
Most people who drown didn’t wear a life jacket. However, you’re legally required to have a life jacket for everyone in the boat. Children under 13 must have a life jacket on while the boat is moving.
Many people think they don’t need a life jacket because they can swim. But if you go overboard and are far from shore, you probably will drown without a lifejacket.
Take A Boating Education Class
It helps if your entire family takes a boating education class, so everyone knows the rules of the water. More than 50% of boating accidents involve those from 26-50, so the more people in your group who take a boating safety class, the better.
Don’t Speed
There aren’t speed limits on the water, but the police can cite you for going too fast or operating the boat recklessly. It’s essential to use common sense and go safely, which is even more critical during the busy season.
Check The Weather
Sunny, warm days are perfect for a day on the water. But you never know when a storm will strike. They can roll in quickly on the water, so it’s essential to check the weather the day before you head out.
When on the water, take note of gusty winds and choppy water because these signs may indicate a storm is approaching. Head for shore as soon as possible.
Anchor Correctly
Having the correct anchor is essential, but safe anchoring is more involved. For example, to prevent the wind from pulling the boat, you might need two anchors forming a V at the front of the boat, so it doesn’t drift.
You also may need to drop the anchor in 20 or 30-foot water, so the tide doesn’t lift the anchor.
Use Caution When Docking
Docking can be difficult depending on the size of the boat, the wind, and the current. As you move the boat closer to the water, be sure you have bumpers out to prevent boat damage.
Lower your speed and be sure docking lines are ready. If you feel wind gusting towards the shore, stop the boat about 24 inches from the dock, and the wind will push the boat in.
If it’s blowing out from shore, pilot the boat at a 30% angle to the dock and tie the bowline first.
Have The Boat Checked
The Coast Guard does boat safety checks at no charge, and they don’t fine or cite you if the boat doesn’t pass. It can never hurt to have the Coast Guard check your boat for safety, and you’ll probably learn a few things along the way.
Boating under the influence is always dangerous, and you can end up in jail if you’re caught. But, as long as you don’t boat and drink, and follow the other safety rules listed here, you’ll have a fantastic time boating and enjoying the sunshine.