DUI and BUI (boating under the influence) are siminlar offenses when it comes to the charges and penalties. The BUI charges and penalties are outlined in California Harbors and Navigation Code section 655. It is unlawful to operate a motor propelled vessel or motor propelled pulled equipment ( e.g. water skiis, aquaplane or similar towed equipment) on the water while under the influence of alcohol, a drug or a combination of alcohol and a drug. You may be arrested and charged with “Boating Under the Influence”. This law applies to any vessel with a motor, whether it is the prime source of propulsion or not including sailboats. It does not apply to sailboats without motors, canoes, kayaks etc.
The charge for “Boating Under the Influence” carries possible fines, jail and educational programs like a “safe boating” course or DUI program. If there is reasonable cause to believe you are operating a boat under the influence, you will be offered the breath or blood test. Minors uner 21 are prohibited from having any alcohol in their systems and operating a vessel or towed equipment. If someone is injured in a “BUI” accident case where the under the influence person caused the injury then a felony may be charged.
These are serious charges and you shouyd contact a DUI defdense attorney as soon as possible to review your case and to evaluate and advise you concerning a BUI case. Contact Christoph Law Offices at 760-941-5720 for a free consultation and realistic evalustion. Located across from Vista Courts for over 32 years, we have provided the highest level of DUI and criminal defense.
