Indianapolis Boating While Intoxicated Attorney
Most individuals are familiar with the dangers that drunk driving presents to all individuals on our motorways. However, cars and trucks are not the only motor vehicles that are dangerous when operated by someone who is intoxicated. Many individuals engage in the dangerous practice of drinking while boating—an activity that is not only illegal, but deadly.
The Indianapolis boating while intoxicated (BWI) victim’s lawyers of Hankey Marks & Crider are working hard to bring reckless boaters to justice.
Facts about Boating Under the Influence
Important factors to know about boating under the influence of alcohol include:
- According to Indiana law, you are legally required to have a BAC of less than. 08 if you are driving a boat.
- If convicted, you could face penalties of a Class C misdemeanor, including losing your boating license for up to two years.
- If death or serious injury is caused by a BUI, the individual could be guilty of a felony and could face harsh penalties, including heavy fines and jail time.
- By operating a boat on Indiana waters, you are automatically legally consenting to drug/alcohol testing. If you refuse, you could be subject to arrest and punishment.
BUI is a serious offense and those who engage in this reckless behavior should not be able to continue operating a boat or other water craft vehicle. If you or someone you love has been injured by a driver who was intoxicated, know that the law protects you and can help you seek justice.
The Dangers of BWI
Boating while intoxicated, or BWI, is a serious offense and a significant hazard. A study conducted in 2002 showed that 39% of all boating fatalities were alcohol-related. Additionally, the study found that individuals who were boating with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.10 or higher were ten times more likely to be killed than individuals with a 0.00 blood alcohol content.
When irresponsible individuals combine boating with alcohol, accidents are likely to occur. Contact the Indianapolis boating accident lawyers of Hankey Marks & Crider today if you have been the victim of an alcohol-related boating accident.
The Legal Ramifications of BWI
As BWIs continue to become more and more prevalent, states are making tougher laws to punish those who drink before or while driving a boat. In some states, a boating while intoxicated charge will appear on a person’s driving record, similar to a driving while intoxicated charge. These laws will hopefully prevent some people from operating a boat if they have been drinking, and will sufficiently punish those who continue to act in a reckless and dangerous manner.
Contact
It is crucial that individuals who threaten the safety of others by drinking and operating any type of motor vehicle are brought to justice. If you or someone you know has been injured in an alcohol-related boating accident, contact the boating while intoxicated lawyers of Hankey Marks & Crider today by calling (317) 634-8565 to discuss your legal rights and options.