Broward DUI Lawyer Blog

Arecent report by the South Florida Sun Sentinel says that divers are asking law enforcement to crack down on boating violations, including boating under the influence.

Boating under the influence is just as serious a charge in Florida as driving under the influence. In fact, the penalties are very similar. Miami BUI Lawyers are committed to preparing the best defense possible in any alcohol-related criminal case. Like Miami DUI, BUI is a serious crime with serious penalties. It should not be taken lightly.

With Memorial Day weekend passing by, many consider that to be the unofficial start to the summer boating season. Sunny weekends and warm weather tend to get people out of their houses and into the water.

But according to 2009 data analyzed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 26 percent of all boating accidents that resulted in fatalities involved alcohol or drugs. Among the victims, 18 percent were affected by drugs or alcohol.

Also in 2009, 320 citations were handed out by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers and other law enforcement. That's up from 2008, when 276 citations were levied against boaters. That's a 16 percent increase.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 941,589 registered vessels in Florida in 2010. There were 61,357 in Miami-Dade County alone and another 42,976 in Broward County.

Boating under the influence can be as dangerous or more dangerous as driving under the influence. While there are far more vehicles on the roads than boats in the water, there is the possibility of drowning and it takes much longer for marine patrols and helicopter ambulances to reach boating victims.

In Florida, boating under the influence is punishable similarly to driving under the influence. Under Florida Statute 327.35, which governs the crime of BUI, a first-time BUI offender can face up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail. But if the offender has a blood-alcohol level of .15 or higher, which is about twice the state's .08 blood-alcohol level limit, they can face up to 9 months in jail and up to $2,000 in fines just for a first conviction.

The defendant will likely also have to spend time on probation, perhaps for a year, attend substance abuse courses, have the vessel impounded and possibly other sanctions. As you can see, the charge is serious and requires an attorney who will diligently fight for your rights. If possible, we will also work to ensure you will still be able to enjoy boating on the great waters of South Florida.