Boating Under the Influence

Boating is a way of life for many Florida citizen who enjoy the vast shoreline and numerous inland lakes. Authorities have increased their enforcement of boating under the influence (BUI) laws. BUI is like a DUI on the road and those driving boats are expected to comply with blood alcohol limits as well. If you are given a BUI it is imperative that you contact our skilled and savvy BUI attorneys at Musca Law who can help to plan your strategic defense.

Where do BUIs Occurr?

Remember that while a DUI in Gainesville happens on a road, a BUI arrest takes place on the various waterways found throughout Florida. This includes sections of the ocean that extend from the beach and on the Florida lakes or rivers. Be aware that law enforcement are allowed more leeway when investigating boaters out a waterway. While they are checking for safety regulation compliance, routine searches by the Coast Guard give officials more rights which creates problems for the Florida boater making a BUI defense challenging.

While challenging to defend, a qualified Gainesville BUI attorney is able to use his expertise and knowledge to find defenses for your case. If you were given a breath test on the water by a Florida officer you have a better chance of avoiding conviction given that breath tests are considered even less reliable when performed over the water.

Competent Gainesville BUI lawyers will not only work towards having evidence thrown out in a pre-trial setting but also look for ways to reduce penalties in the negotiations before a trial.

When a dismissal of the charges isn’t possible, an excellent Gainesville BUI lawyer will do everything they can to have the penalties lowered. First time offenders find the state is more cooperative when negotiating for a lesser charge and could be given a citation for “reckless operation” rather than the more severe BUI charge.

Boating under the influence is a serious offense and can bear many of the same penalties and fines as driving under the influence. If you’ve been arrested for a Florida BUI, you will need a Gainesville BUI attorney to help you in your defense. Contact Musca Law today.