What Happens if You Get a DUI on a Boat

Have you already been accused of boating DUI in NJ? If so, you need to take action quickly to protect yourself and your interests. Being convicted could impact your ability to drive and your freedom.

Can You Get a DUI on a Boat?

Yes, it’s against the law to operate a boat in New Jersey with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher. It’s also an offense to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating any vessel.

If someone is convicted of a boating DUI or boating while under the influence, this could lead to a mandatory loss of driving as well as boating privileges. Any person who has been accused of boating under the influence needs the help of a lawyer immediately.

A person could be convicted of BUI (or boating under the influence) for running a vessel while having a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher or being impaired by a habit-forming drug, a narcotic, or a hallucinogenic that may render that person a risk to themselves as well as to others.

What Happens if You Get a DUI on a Boat?

For the first offense for alcohol impairment of 0.08% BAC, you could face:

• Up to $400 in fines
• driver’s license suspension for three months, and
• a suspension of boating privileges for a year

For a first offense BUI for drug impairment of 0.1% BAC or higher, you could face:

• Boating privilege suspension as long as one year
• Driver’s license suspension that may go as long as a year, and
• Up to $500 in fines

Second and subsequent BUIs carry more fines, hours of community service, and time in jail in addition to extended boating or driving privilege suspensions. The facts of every case are different and this is why it is important to consult directly with a lawyer who has experience representing those accused of boating DWI in the state of New Jersey.

Get a Free Consultation with an Atlantic County DUI/DWI Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested for DUI on a boat in Atlantic County or anywhere else in South Jersey, reach out to the Law Offices of John W. Tumelty for help. Attorney Tumelty offers a free initial consultation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Call 609.385.4010 or contact us online. Don’t delay! The sooner you call, the sooner you can get help.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.