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Boating Under the Influence in Florida

Sept. 30, 2020

Why You Should Take A BUI (Boating Under the Influence) Charge Just as Seriously as A DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

Near Pensacola Beach, here on the beautiful Gulf Coast, there are many well-known and wonderful restaurants and bars on the beach. Many of us own boats and watercraft and enjoy a fun weekend on the water relaxing and often grabbing a drink with our friends and family. Whether you like to grab an Irish Wake at McGuire's, a Diesel Fuel at Flounder's, or a couple of beers of Blackwater Creek out in Milton, there are many people who boat and drink.

If Your Blood or Breath-Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Over .08, and You Are Operating a Vessel/Boat on The Water, You Are Risking A BUI Charge.

A vessel is defined as anything on the water- canoes, houseboats, sailboats, yachts, speed boats, barges- anything aside from a seaplane!

If you have a previous alcohol-related charge or offense, your penalties for a BUI charge will indeed be steeper. Both previous DUIs and BUIs will count as priors. If your BAC level is significantly over the .08 limit, your penalties can also be more severe. If you have a minor in the vessel at the time, or if you are in a boating accident while impaired that causes property damage, injury, or death, your penalties may also be more severe.

Call Us Today if You Have Been Charged with A BUI And Need a Strong Defense! We Are Here to Help.

Most first-time BUI charges are second-degree misdemeanors and carry up to $1000 in fines and up to six months in jail. If this is a second charge, your fines can each $4000 and you face up to a year in jail. If this is your third or subsequent charge, you can face up to five years in prison, as well as $5000 in fines and having your boat impounded.

It is important to have your BUI case looked at by an experienced attorney who can take a close look at the process in which you were charged and prepare you a strong defense. Attorney Tom McGuire is an experienced criminal defense lawyer who is here to help defend your BUI charge. Don't wait- call Attorney Tom McGuire today at Panhandle Defense and let us fight for you!