Hagar and Phillips - Boating Under the Influence

Boating Under the Influence

Laws on the road are heavily enforced in order to decrease accidents and fatalities due to drivers who are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. But are you aware that you can get a DUI (or rather, BUI) in the water? Boating Under the Influence is a criminal offense and here’s what you need to know about it. You may be off the road, but you’re not exempt from the law.

It’s a Common Occurrence

Approximately half of all boating accidents in the U.S. are due to an operator being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some people may think that standards for operating a boat differ from operating a car because there’s an open body of water to maneuver about, but this is definitely not the case. Boating under the influence is not to be taken lightly. You may need a boat accident attorney to help with your situation.

The Boating Under the Influence Law is Enforced

Just like there are checkpoints on the road, there are checkpoints in the water. Law enforcement officials can pull you over, and depending on what state you are operating your boat in, you could be subject to a breathalyzer test, blood test, or field sobriety test. You may have questions such as is DUI a felony in TN? What is the public intoxication law in TN? Contact a lawyer to discuss your case.

Be Aware, Especially Around the Holidays

During celebratory holidays such as Memorial Day and Independence Day, the likelihood of BUI’s increase. More people are spending time on the water, wanting to relax. Drinking typically becomes a part of their celebrations. As a boat operator, know that it’s your responsibility to safely maneuver the waters in a sober state. In addition to this, practice defensive boating, as you don’t know if others have been following the law.

BUI Laws in Tennessee

The penalties for boating under the influence in Tennessee are not cheap. If you receive a BUI, you could be fined up to $5,000, as well as sentenced to jail, depending on the severity of the situation. When you’re boating under the influence, you’re putting yourself and others in danger. Remember the consequences and don’t drink and operate a boat. Public intoxication can also cause legal issues.

Contact a Boat Accident Attorney

To learn more about BUI laws in Tennessee, visit Boat Tennessee Course. And if you’re in need of representation due to a BUI, a DUI, or public intoxication, contact Hagar & Phillips PLLC. Our legal team is ready to discuss your case and your legal options.

Additional Resources:

Five Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Tennessee

Being involved in a car accident can be disorienting and stressful, especially if there are injuries, property damage, or questions about who is at fault. In the moments and days that follow, small decisions can have a big impact on insurance claims, medical care, and any legal issues that might arise later. While this information is not legal advice and does not replace professional guidance, being aware of common mistakes after a crash can help people in Tennessee protect themselves and make more informed choices.

Read Post

Dashcams and Liability After a Crash in Tennessee: Do They Help or Hurt?

More drivers in Tennessee are adding dashcams to their vehicles, hoping to capture evidence if a collision ever occurs. These small cameras can record what happens in and around a car, but many people wonder whether dashcam footage actually helps or can sometimes hurt them in the wake of a crash. In Tennessee, dashcams are generally legal, but how that footage is later used can depend on what the video shows, how it is stored, and how it fits into insurance and legal processes.

Read Post

Trusts in Tennessee: What They Are (and Are Not) For in Estate Planning

Many people in Tennessee include the word “trust” in their estate‑planning conversations, often alongside wills, powers of attorney, and guardianship documents. A trust is a legal tool that can be used to manage and distribute assets, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. Understanding what trusts generally can and cannot do helps families decide whether a trust might fit into their long‑term plans, without turning into a promise about any specific outcome.

Read Post