Los Angeles is a great place to enjoy good weather, and boating is one of the favorite activities of families with kids. If you and your family members love going on boats out in the ocean, you should be aware of the safety concerns. Like all other forms of entertainment, boating has its own risks and concerns.
One of the biggest concerns with boating is a BUI or boating under the influence. It means when the boat is being operated by someone who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs that impair their judgment. If you have been injured in a boating accident, hire an experienced attorney to determine who is liable for your damages.
Boating under the influence or BUI: Understanding what it is
Boating under the influence or a BUI is what it sounds like. It is not illegal for a passenger to have a drink or two while riding on the boat and enjoying the ocean view, but the operation team, especially the one handling the wheel, must be completely sober at all times.
It is illegal for a boat, jet ski, or other water vessel operator to have a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.8 or higher. This is because alcohol can impair a person’s ability to make a judgment and makes them less alert about their surroundings. It is perhaps even more dangerous on a boat because one mistake can lead to a devastating drowning accident.
The negligent actions of a drunk boat operator not only put them at risk but the members of the team and the passengers.
What are the legal consequences of driving a boat under the influence?
Boating under the influence is a serious offense, perhaps as serious as a DUI. The legal penalties in California depend on whether this was their first offense and which law has been violated. For a misdemeanor, the defendant could be sent to jail for at least six months and has to pay a fine of $1000.
Felonies are more severe in nature. In extreme cases, the defendant could be sent to jail for 16 months, two years, or three years.
If a BUI causes injury to the passengers on board, the defendant could have to pay a fine of up to $5000.
Handling boat accident claims
Boat accident claims have some differences but are handled the same way as other personal injury claims. If you or your loved one was injured on a boat because of the operator’s negligence, you can contact an attorney and start working on your case.
