It may be tempting to think of boating under the influence as less serious than drunk driving, but both are punishable by law. Here in Louisiana, boating is very common for both work and recreation, so it’s important to understand the legal risks you face if you drink and operate a boat. Here’s what you should know about boating under the influence.

What Does the Law Say about Boating Under the Influence?

In Louisiana, it is illegal for you to operate a boat if your blood alcohol concentration is at or above 0.08% if you are age 21 or over, or at or above 0.02% if you are under age 21. Additionally, if the boat you are operating under the influence does not belong to you, its owner can also be charged for knowingly allowing an intoxicated person to operate it. Just as you would have a designated driver to get you home safely after a night out, it’s always a good idea to have a sober person on board who can operate the boat safely and legally.

What Are the Penalties for Boating Under the Influence?

Like other DWI and DUI offenses, boating under the influence can lead to stiff penalties. In Louisiana, drunk boating is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, six months of jail time, or both. Your boating and motor vehicle licenses may also be suspended or even revoked.

In addition to the legal penalties, boating while intoxicated can also lead to other much more serious consequences. Impaired boaters are more likely to be involved in crashes out on the water, which can injure or even kill passengers, other boaters, swimmers, and water skiers. Boating accidents caused by impairment can also damage public and private property, and they can harm the delicate ecosystems of Louisiana’s waterways.

If you are facing boating under the influence charges in Louisiana, you need to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Townsend Myers at NOLA Criminal Law has been serving clients in New Orleans for more than 20 years, and he is well-versed in DUI and DWI cases. Contact our office online or call (504) 571-9529 today to set up an appointment.

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