Why a BUI Charge Is Serious
Recreational boating is popular in Florida, particularly during the summer months, when many people take to lakes, rivers and the ocean to enjoy time on the open water. Unfortunately, this also means that there is an increased likelihood of serious accidents and injuries on the water, and as a result, law enforcement personnel often perform more patrols to ensure safety.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, there are more than 900,000 registered vessels in the state, and in 2012, there were 386 boating injuries. One of the primary causes of these accidents was boating under the influence of alcohol, and law enforcement is clamping down on this issue by enforcing the legal limits and making arrests.
If you are facing a BUI charge, it is important to take the situation seriously. Since BUI is a major contributor to water-related accidents, there is a possibility that you will face harsh penalties, which could include jail time.
The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. is equipped to evaluate your charges and help you develop a comprehensive defense strategy. Naples criminal lawyer Michael Raheb offers free, no-obligation consultations, and he has extensive experience handling DUI and BUI charges. Call us today at 866-949-0888 to schedule an appointment, and read on for more information on BUI charges.
BUI in Florida
Florida leads the United States in the annual number of boating deaths, and a significant percentage of these involve alcohol. As a result, there are specific Florida Statutes in place that handle BUI incidents.
It is not illegal to consume alcohol before operating a boat, but there are specific limits to how much alcohol you may have in your blood while boating. According to Florida law, an individual is guilty of boating under the influence and may face punishment if he or she has a blood alcohol level of more than 0.08 grams per 100 milliliters of blood.
Penalties
According to Florida laws, if a judge convicts you of boating under the influence, you may face severe punishment. Penalties include a fine of between $500 and $1,000 for a first conviction and $1,000 and $2,000 for a second conviction. You may also face jail time of up to six months for a first conviction or nine months for a second conviction.
Fourth and subsequent convictions are serious, and a judge will handle them according to specific laws. Extended jail time is likely, and fines under these circumstances are not less than $2,000.
If you are facing serious criminal charges in Florida, contact a Naples criminal attorney for advice. At the Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., we can help you avoid making key mistakes that may compromise your interests, and we will work with you and guide you through the legal process. Call us today at 866-949-0888 to schedule an appointment, because one of the best ways to achieve a positive outcome is to turn to a qualified legal professional.
