What is BWI?

Most individuals are familiar with the laws regulating alcohol consumption and the operation of cars and other automobiles. However, few people are aware that similar laws exist governing alcohol consumption and boat operation.

Many individuals associate alcohol consumption and boating as a natural part of a fun weekend out on a lake. However, drinking and operating a boat is an extremely dangerous combination and can result in serious punishments.

Dangers of BWI

BWI, or boating while intoxicated (also known as BUI-boating under the influence), greatly increases the likelihood of being in a serious and potentially deadly accident. A 2002 study revealed that 39% of all boating fatalities were alcohol-related, and that this statistic has been rising over the years.

Additionally, a person who is operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is 10 times more likely to be killed in a boating accident than if he or she were operating the boat sober.

In order to maintain safety for themselves and for everyone else on the water, individuals should never consume alcohol while operating a boat.

Penalties for BWI

Not only is boating while intoxicated extremely dangerous, but it is also a punishable offense. Individuals found guilty of boating while intoxicated can be sentenced with a number of penalties including:

• A felony conviction
• Serious fines
• Jail time
• Revocation of an automobile driver’s license

Exact penalties differ based on jurisdiction and the specifics of the situation. However, no matter what the situation is, boating while intoxicated carries with it stiff penalties.

Contact a Minnesota Boating DUI Lawyer

If you or someone you know has been injured in an alcohol-related boating accident, contact the Minnesota boating accident attorneys of TSR Injury Law today by calling (612) TSR-TIME to schedule a consultation or submit our contact form.