A BUI is also known as boating under the influence. Similar to a driving under the influence (DUI) charge, it involves drinking while driving watercraft, such as a boat. In the Tampa, Florida area, law enforcement officials take the charge very seriously. Anyone found operating watercraft with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or greater will be charged with a BUI. When someone is charged with BUI, they should hire a Tampa DUI attorney to help with the legal process. The offense is treated with as much seriousness as if the person was charged with DUI. Depending on whether there was a boating accident involved, if anyone was injured or killed or suffered any ill effects, punishments can be severe.

Location

Tampa, Florida has many waterways and tributaries in its vicinity. Pleasure boating is a popular pastime in the area on the bay, ocean or lake. One of the reasons people own watercraft is to get together with friends and enjoy the sun, water and tropical breezes. It is common for people to bring along alcoholic beverages while spending time with friends on their boats. The sunshine and outdoors can intensify the effects of alcohol. Loss of coordination, balance and slower reaction times are caused by alcohol. As a result, boating incidents and accidents may occur. Tampa DUI attorneys are best suited to defend these cases because they are familiar with the area’s court system.

Penalties

Law enforcement officials take alcohol and boating as seriously, if not more so, as DUI. Consequences may include fines, community service, prison or supervised rehabilitation. A Tampa DUI lawyer will take the time to explain to the client arrested for BUI the penalties if convicted. The first offense is six months in the county jail and/or a fine of $250 to $500. The second is up to a year in jail and/or a $500 to $1,000 fine. If a third offense occurs within 10 years, the convicted person will spend up to five years in state prison and must pay a fine of up to $5,000.

Age

Anyone under the age of 21 that is boating while drinking will also face charges and be taken into custody with a BAC of .02 or higher. Other charges can be brought against people in this situation, such as the adult who gave alcohol to or purchased it for the minor. They can be charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Any adults present may also be tested for alcohol use.