Moor Often than Knot Alcohol is to Blame
Warm temperatures bring everyone out to the water. Whether you’re a boater, a swimmer, or you just enjoy watching the waves from your lounge chair, summer means time by the water. After all, sunshine, a breeze, and a cold beer make for a wonderful combination. Throw in an afternoon on the water, and you’ve got the makings of an idyllic summer’s day – right?
WRONG. You could face turning in your life jacket for handcuffs if you’re caught boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. State and federal law enforcement have the right to pull over boat operators suspected of drinking and boating.
BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
You’ll be subjected to a breathalyzer and a field sobriety test. Fail those tests, and you could be facing the loss of your boating license, heavy fines, or even jail time.
Legal trouble is one thing – injuring or killing someone is another. Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in deadly boating accidents. When under the influence, it is easy to speed or drive your vessel in a reckless manner without realizing you’re doing so. This can cause passengers to fall off the boat and into the water. Even if people on board can stay safe, other boaters – including those kayaking or jet skiing – are in real danger when a drunken mariner is on the water.
CONSEQUENCES OF DRUNK BOATING
Should you find yourself involved in an accident at sea after you’ve been imbibing, you may be held legally responsible for the damages you cause. This can include damage to vessels involved in the accident, medical bills of people injured, and, in worst-case scenarios, you may even face criminal penalties for your role in the incident.
So the next time you reach for a cold one while helming a vessel, skip it! Nothing ruins a beautiful day on the water like being arrested.
VIRGINIA BOAT ACCIDENT LAWYER
If you or your loved one has been injured, you may want to speak with an experienced boat accident lawyer. We can fight to get the results and the financial compensation you deserve. Richard Serpe has helped victims of serious injuries, and families affected by wrongful death for over 35 years. Richard Serpe gained an additional Master’s Degree in maritime law from Tulane University School after graduating from law school.