Seattle BUI Lawyer

Boating Under the Influence

Many individuals and families in Washington State will head to the rivers, lakes and beaches for water recreation and activities when the weather turns warm. According to the National Recreational Boating Safety Program, approximately 700 boating fatalities take place in the United States every year and drinking alcohol while boating was a factor in one of every five boat accidents. This is one of the main reasons why law enforcement agents are so harsh on those who drink and then operate boats. In 2011, there were 325 BUI arrests and 8,763 safety warnings given by law enforcement officers, and this number has been on the rise since 2009.

When people operate boats and other watercraft, they are legally required to follow all laws and required safety procedures. At the point when a person's functions are impaired because of alcohol or other controlled substances, they can be arrested and charged with BUI (Boating under the influence). Similar to DUI charges, BUI is a serious offense in Washington State and violators will be harshly prosecuted. It is illegal for any individual to operate a water vessel in a reckless or dangerous manner according to the Revised Code of Washington, and this includes operating a boat or ship while under the influence of "intoxicating liquor."

An individual may face criminal charges if the following circumstances apply:

• The boat operator shows that their blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or above
• The boat operator is impaired due to intoxication by alcohol (regardless of BAC)
• The boat operator is impaired due to intoxication by drugs

If you or someone close to you has been arrested and/or charged with BUI in Seattle, you must take the necessary steps to protect your future. Individuals who are convicted of BUI in Seattle face very harsh consequences, including up to 90 days in jail and approximately $1,000 in fines, not to mention having a misdemeanor offense on your record. You must consult a Seattle BUI defense attorney to give yourself the best chance at avoiding conviction and the penalties that would otherwise result.

Contact a Seattle BUI Attorney!

When your future and your freedom are at stake, there is only one thing you should do, and that is to speak with an experienced and dedicated Seattle BUI lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney from our firm will meet with you to discuss your BUI charges, and will review all the circumstances of your case to find a way of defending you. The blood and breath test results will be thoroughly evaluated, as well as the procedure of the police officer during your arrest. When you need serious legal help, you can rest assured knowing your case is in professional, dependable hands. Contact a Seattle DUI attorney if you have been charged with boating under the influence.