Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

With summer in full swing, residents and out-of-state visitors alike have taken their boats out onto Georgia's numerous rivers and lakes. Many like to have a good time—whether fishing, skiing, or just simply relaxing.

While boating recreation involves food, fishing and good company of friends and family, it also frequently involves alcohol. For those boaters out there, you should know that the same Georgia DUI laws applicable to motor vehicles apply similarly to boats. Accordingly, you could be subject to a felony and all of its consequences upon arrest for and conviction of driving a boat while under the influence of alcohol (or “BUI”).

In Georgia, it is unlawful to:

• operate a vessel subject to registration, and

• while on public waters of Georgia,

• while under the influence of any intoxicant or with a blood alcohol of .08 percent or greater.

So, enjoy your time on the water this summer but be careful not to operate your boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.