South Carolina Boating DUI Lawyer
Under South Carolina law, you can be arrested on suspicion of drunk driving even if you were not behind the wheel of a car, truck or SUV. A common impaired driving offense, similar to DUI, is boating under the influence (BUI).
You may be out enjoying the water after having a beer on the beach. Or perhaps you had a cocktail while boating on Lake Murray. Regardless of how it happened, when you are stopped for suspicion of drunk driving while on a Jet Ski, motorboat or sailboat, you face the same consequences as a DUI offense.
At the Law Offices of Richard J. Breibart, LLC, our boating under the influence defense attorneys understand the charges against you and know how to challenge your BUI charges. To learn more, contact our office online or call 866-645-8743.
Your Rights When Suspected of Boating Under the Influence
If you are stopped on suspicion of boating under the influence, you have the same rights that apply to DUI stops:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to decline any field sobriety tests or a preliminary breath test
- The right to decline a Breathalyzer test (although refusal will result in an automatic suspension of your driver's license)
You also have the right to a jury trial, to examine all of the evidence against you and to cross-examine the arresting officer.
Consequences of a BUI Conviction
If you are convicted of boating under the influence, you not only face fines and other financial penalties, but the possibility of jail time and community service. In addition, you will have to attend alcohol and drug education programs such as the South Carolina Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP) and may be suspended from operating a boat or other watercraft for up to two years.
If you're convicted of BUI in conjunction with an accident that caused serious bodily harm or death, you could be imprisoned for up to 25 years. Like DUI convictions, BUI convictions can also have collateral consequences, including making it difficult to find a job or secure housing.
Regardless of the specific BUI charges, it is important to consult with a Lexington boat accident lawyer to protect your rights and get the help you need through every step of the process. Call 866-645-8743 or contact us online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout the state, including people from Greenwood County, Saluda County and Lexington County.
