A favorite past time of many Georgians is to spend weekends in the summer out on the lake, whether it be Lake Lanier, Altoona, Oconee, Olmstead, or any of the many other lakes in Georgia.
Unlike driving a car, you are allowed to have an open container on a boat while operating it. But, just like driving a car, you are not allowed to operate a boat while impaired by alcohol or drugs (Georgia boating under the influence). On Georgia waters, the legal limit for Boating Under the Influence BUI is 0.100% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). On Federal waters, the legal limit for BUI is 0.080% BAC, just like Georgia state law on automobile Driving Under the Influence DUI. Because of this, an issue sometimes arises with BUI cases as to whether the BUI occured on State or Federal waters and which standard applies.
When on a vessel, it is always a good idea to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, because of the sun, activity, muscles used to stabilize the body while on a moving vessel, a person fatigues easier. This is particularly true if you are drinking alcohol, since a tired body is more susceptible to the effects of alcohol.
At A. Bishop Law, our Georgia boat lawyers welcome any questions about boating safety and boating law. If you, a family member or friend is facing a criminal boating charge or boating accident, please Call or Email us about any questions you may have about Georgia Boating law safety violations. Your initial consultation is free and confidential.
About the author: Anne Bishop is a Georgia Lawyer with A. Bishop Law in Gainesville, Georgia and handles various legal matters arising on the lakes of Georgia, including Boating Under the Influence Criminal Defense and Boating Injuries, as well as DUI / DWI, BUI, Accident & Injury and other Georgia Criminal Defense matters. The law office of A. Bishop Law can assist clients through out Georgia including: Lake Lanier, Lake Hartwell, Hall County (Gainesville, Oakwood, Flowery Branch), Jackson County (Jefferson, Braselton) White County (Helen, Cleveland), Lumpkin County (Dahlonega), Dawson County (Dawsonville), Habersham County (Demorest, Cornelia), and all of Northeast Georgia.
This article and video should not be considered nor relied upon as legal advice since it is only intended for general overview and informational purposes. Please consult with an attorney on your specific situation in order to determine an appropriate legal course of action.