Summertime in Colorado is a great time for outdoor activities, including boating on the state's many lakes and rivers. While it may be tempting to enjoy a few cold drinks while out on the water, it's important to remember that operating any boat or vessel while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs is illegal. Doing so is considered Boating Under the Influence (BUI) and can result in criminal charges.
Those who are caught boating under the influence may face serious consequences, including fines, jail time, boat impoundment, and even a suspended boating license. If someone is arrested or charged with BUI, they should seek legal counsel to ensure their rights are protected.
Penalties for BUI in Colorado
The penalties for a BUI conviction in Colorado are a little less severe than those available for a DUI conviction, but not by much. If you are convicted of a first-time BUI, you may be sentenced to jail for a term between five and 180 days. Your first conviction will also incur a fine in an amount between $100 and $1,000. You will also lose your boating privileges on state waters for three months.
Does Implied Consent Apply to Operating a Vessel on the Water?
Yes. Just as all Colorado residents who get a driver’s license implicitly consent to testing for drugs and alcohol upon a DUI arrest, the same applies to boat operators. That said, police must have established reasonable suspicion and probable cause to get to this point, which your BUI attorney should thoroughly examine.
Will Getting a BUI Affect My Driving Privileges?
If you were arrested for operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, a conviction for BUI is unlikely to affect your driving privileges. That said, you will likely face a three-month suspension for boating on state waters, and violating this suspension may lead to additional criminal penalties.
Arrested for BUI in Colorado? Call Orr Law Firm.
Orr Law Firm has extensive experience in defending clients against BUI charges. Our attorneys understand the laws surrounding boating activities and how to best defend our clients from possible penalties or convictions for these types of offenses. We have successfully defended numerous clients who were charged with BUI, and we are confident that we can do the same for you.
Our attorneys will carefully review your case and work hard to build a strong, effective defense strategy to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome. We understand how a BUI conviction can affect your life, so we strive to provide our clients with the highest quality representation and ensure that we meet all of their legal needs.
For more information, call Orr Law Firm at (303) 747-4247 and request a consultation.