BUI, Boating Under the Influence

It is important to understand that your driver's license IS affected by a boating under the influence conviction, just as it would be for a vehicular DUI. Thus, it is urgent that you, or preferably your attorney, contact the Florida DMV to demand a hearing; if this is not done within 10 days of the arrest, the suspension will automatically take effect.

A boating under the influence can occur on the ocean, intracoastal waterways, a lake or even a river. As with vehicular DUI cases, law enforcement officials are attracted to such things as erratic operation of the boat, speeding, right-of-way violations, lack of current visible registration and equipment violations (navigation lights, life preservers). And, as with vehicular DUI, a BUI investigation will usually involve initial questioning, field sobriety exercises and a breath, blood or urine test.

The possible legal defenses are also similar to that for drunk driving charges. The penalties for BUI are the same as those for a DUI and may include: jail, fines, license suspension, DUI schools, probation, possible installation of an ignition interlock device, etc.

Because the penalties for a BUI are as severe as those for a DUI, don't simply plead guilty without seeing what our very experienced law firm can do for you. Our 24-hour telephone number is (866) 50-DEFEND or (866) 503-3336. The call is free and the initial consultation is free. We look forward to helping you and your family through this very difficult time.