For many, a day spent outside cruising on the water with family and friends is a great way to spend a summer day. However, far too few people know that just like driving a car, if intoxicated, operating a boat can have similar consequences in Indiana.
Potential Felony
Operating a boat in the eyes of the law is like driving. This means that you must be under the legal drinking limit to steer the boat. The primary reason for the regulation is that injuries from intoxicated drivers can cause real harm. In fact, about 25 percent of boating accidents occur because of drunk boat drivers.
Numerous law enforcement agencies may police the waterways, including the U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement authorities. If found to be driving under the influence, it can result in a felony and potentially impact your ability to have a driver’s license for a car.
Avoiding Issues
The best way to avoid any legal issues would be to ensure that drinking in excess does not occur while you or anyone is driving the boat. However, if law enforcement officers stop you, contacting a skilled attorney to defend you against any legal troubles related to injuries from intoxicated drivers may help.
Now that you know that driving a boat holds much of the same responsibilities as driving a car, you should understand the need to abstain from drinking too much while operating a water vessel. Moreover, if you should ever have any issues, recalling the importance of the law and speaking with a lawyer you trust can help ensure the most advantageous outcome for any legal issues you may face.
