I got a DUI in my boat, what do I do?
It is important to contact an attorney that has experience helping people with specifically this type of problem. Â A BUI or Boating under the influence is a specific type of offense codified under the Harbor and Navigation H&N Code rather than the Vehicle Code (VC) that punishes a DUI. Â
Is a DUI in a boat, or BUI the same as a DUI in a Vehicle?
No, they are similar, but also have very specific difference as it applies to your DMV record, Drivers License, Insurance, and the defenses. Â
How do the Field Sobriety Tests apply to a BUI?
They may apply differently. Â Did you perform the tests in the sand on a beach, dry level parking lot, or on a boat that is rocking? Â Also, the FST manual talks about specific pre-detention detection that may vary on a boat. Â For instance, weaving is unlikely in a boat, along with crossing yellow lines. Â However, boating at a high rate of speed in a buoyed off no wake zone may provide probable cause for a stop. Â Another factor that may come into play is whether your equilibrium was altered because you were on a boat, rocking in the waves for several hours. Â It can take time to adjust to being on land again. Â The one-leg stand on a boat is markedly more difficult to perform, and may be rendered inapplicable to the prosecutions case for being impaired.
If you need help defending against a BUI, call Fresno Criminal Defense Attorney Jonathan Rooker for one of the nationals top DUI / BUI defense attorneys.
Boating Under the Influence: (BUI) Personal Experience: Â I have been involved in a boat and jet ski collision where alcohol was involved. Â One person lost their life. Â Countless other lives were altered. Â I was not the operator of either vessel, but tell you that several of the survivors and their families had their lives dramatically altered. Â I watched on as a life long friend was prosecuted, testified at his trial, and sat with his father while the jury was deliberating. Please, be safe on the water. Â Water is an unnatural environment for humans, and even what would be a relatively minor bump on the head in an auto accident can turn into a fatal accident on the water. Â