Boating Under the Influence

Every boater needs to understand the risks of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in every state. The law pertains to all boats and includes foreign vessels that operate in U.S. waters as well as U.S. vessels on the high seas.

Alcohol affects vision, judgment, coordination and balance. The likelihood of accidents afloat is increased with theses impairments. Over half of the victims of boating deaths involving alcohol use have capsized their boats and/or have fallen overboard.

Motion, vibration, engine noise, wind, spray and sun accelerate a drinker's impairment. A boat operator's coordination, judgment and reaction time decline faster when using alcohol.

When a boat operator drinks it makes it harder to process information, make good choices and assess situations. There is a lack of coordination, increased reaction time and balance problems. There is a reduction in depth perception, a decrease in peripheral vision, decreased night vision, poor focus and difficulties in distinguishing colors such as red and green.

A boat operator with a blood alcohol level above .08 percent is estimated to be more than 10 times as likely to die in a boating accident than an operator with a zero blood alcohol level. Passengers are also in great risk of injury or death, particularly if they too are using alcohol

Penalties for BUI can include fines, suspension or revocation of a boat operator's privileges, and jail terms. A civil suit may also be filed against the operator convicted of BUI.

Alcohol can turn a fun day on the water into a lifetime tragedy. Rather than using alcohol while afloat take along water, sodas, iced teas or lemonade. Bring plenty of food and snacks. Wear clothes that will keep you and your passengers cool. It's common to become tired more quickly on the water so limit your trip to a reasonable time to avoid fatigue. If alcohol is going to be included in your day's activities, plan to have a party in a picnic area, boating club or your backyard. Make sure you choose a location where you'll have time between the fun and getting back into your car or boat. Wait a minimum of an hour per drink before operating your boat if you consume alcohol while having lunch or dinner while docked somewhere. Intoxicated passengers are also at risk of injury or falls overboard. The safest way to enjoy the water is by having no alcohol while on board.

Many recreational boaters forget that a boat is a vehicle. The safe operation of a boat is a legal and personal responsibility. Remember, safe boating is smart boating.

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