Boating Under the Influence (BUI)
Boating Under the Influence (or Operating a Vessel While Under the Influence)
What are the penalties for Boating Under the Influence (BUI)/Operating a Vessel While Under the Influence (OUI)?
The penalties for Boating Under the Influence/Operating a Vessel While Under the Influence (OUI) are very similar to Maryland’s DUI laws.
For a first offense, a maximum possible penalty is one year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
For a second offense, a maximum possible penalty is two years in jail, a $2,000 fine, or both.
For a third offense, a maximum possible penalty is three years in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.
In addition to jail time, a fine, or both, a court may also prohibit a person convicted of BUI from operating a boat on the waters of the State for up to one year (if there was a refusal to take the test or the person was tested and the result was 0.08 alcohol concentration or greater).
Implied Consent
By operating or attempting to operate a vessel on Maryland waters, in the eyes of the law you have consented to be tested for alcohol or drugs if requested by a law enforcement officer.
The Big Difference between Car stops and Boat stops.
There is a huge, huge difference between car and boat stops in Maryland. While driving a car, an officer needs “Reasonable Articulable Suspicion” to pull you over. While in a boat, the Maryland Natural Resources Police Department, U.S. Coast Guard, or any other city or county police with a marine unit are authorized to search your boat at any time. These searches may be based on observed behavior or a random, standard boat inspection.
How will an BUI conviction affect my boating license?
A BUI could lead to the permanent loss of your boating license.
How will an BUI conviction affect my driver’s license?
A BUI conviction does not impact either your driving record in Maryland or your Maryland driver’s license.
Boating Under the Influence is a serious charge. If you have been charged with BUI, do not hesitate and contact the Law Office of Andrew Hoverman, LLC today to discuss the facts of your case and what your options may be.