Boating Under the Influence

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Defense in Florida

Florida consistently ranks highest in the nation for boating under the influence arrests. With thousands of residents and visitors enjoying the water each year, law enforcement agencies remain active and aggressive in patrolling lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. BUI charges are serious and carry penalties similar to driving under the influence (DUI).

To prove a BUI charge, the State must show that the person operated a vessel while impaired by alcohol, a chemical substance, or a controlled substance. This includes situations where the operator’s normal faculties appear impaired or their blood or breath alcohol concentration is 0.08 or higher.

Unlike vehicle stops on the road, law enforcement officers do not need probable cause to stop a boat. Officers can stop any vessel at any time to perform a safety inspection. If the officer suspects impairment, they may request field sobriety exercises and a breathalyzer test.

Penalties for a first-time BUI conviction include a fine ranging from $250 to $500 and up to six months in jail. A second conviction raises the fine to $500 to $1,000 and increases the maximum jail time to nine months. Penalties become harsher if the individual’s BAC was 0.20 or higher or if a minor was on board.

A third BUI offense within ten years is a third-degree felony, which carries up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. A fourth conviction, regardless of the timeframe, also results in felony charges. Additional penalties include probation, vessel impoundment, community service, and mandatory substance abuse education and treatment.

If you or someone you know faces a BUI charge in Sanford or anywhere in Central Florida, contact criminal defense attorney Ryan Yadav. With experience handling alcohol-related boating cases, Ryan can review your stop, challenge unlawful searches, and fight to protect your rights and your future.