Boating Under the Influence Consequences in Alton, IL

While out in the heat and having some summer fun, some people think they can have a drink or two while they operate a boat. What those people fail to realize is how similar Alton, Illinois boating laws are to its DUI laws. The same limits and regulations apply to boating, if your blood-alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or more while operating a boat, you are breaking the law. This term is often referred to as a BUI or boating under the influence.

What Qualifies as Boating Under the Influence?

The Illinois Boat Registration and Safety Act states the ways you can be charged with boating under the influence (BUI).  If you’re under the influence of alcohol or a drug that would impair your ability to safely operate the vessel, or if your BAC is .08 or above, you could be charged.

BUI Consequences

BUIs can carry weighty consequences similar to DUIs. A typical BUI violation constitutes a Class A misdemeanor, which could result in a $2,500 fine or up to a year in jail. Depending on the circumstances of the situation itself, your charges could become a felony charge. Felony charges can land you a fine of $25,000 and up to three years in prison. Typically charges this significant is given in situations where your actions caused permanent damage or bodily harm to a passenger on the vessel (not including yourself) or if this is a repeated offense. The Department of Natural Resources will also revoke your watercraft operation privileges for a period of time depending on what conviction you were charged with. Misdemeanors result in one-year suspensions and Felonies result in three years suspensions.

Need a lawyer who can help your fight your BUI charges? Give our team over at Diaz Law Offices a call today!