Boating Under the Influence

Because Florida is home to many miles of shoreline and a number of inland lakes, boating has become a way of life. This is especially true around Tampa, where law enforcement officials have stepped up their efforts to enforce boating under the influence (BUI) laws. BUI in Tampa is similar to DUI on the roadways, and drivers of boats must comply with blood alcohol content limits just the same. When you get a Tampa BUI, it is important to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who can help you through the process. The Tampa DUI attorneys at Musca Law are prepared to walk you through the options.

Where Do BUIs Occur?

While a DUI in Tampa can only occur on the roadway, a BUI arrest can occur on a number of different waterways. This might mean the portion of the ocean extending just from the beach or maybe one of the lakes or rivers that runs through the state. The problem for boaters is that officers have much more leeway in terms of investigating boats out on the waterway. They are able to come on board to check safety regulation compliance, and routine searches from the Coast Guard are always an issue. This gives the enforcement officials more rights and makes BUI defense more difficult.

Even though BUI defense is more difficult, it is still possible when you enlist the help of a well-qualified attorney. A smart Tampa DUI attorney can use his knowledge of the law to spot those defenses that might be available in your case. If your arrest was the result of a breath test administered by Florida law enforcement officials, then you have a good chance of avoiding conviction. These tests are unreliable when used on the road, and they are even more unreliable when administered on the water.

Good Tampa DUI lawyers can argue for the suppression of evidence in pre-trial motions, which means that the evidence cannot be used. They can look to lessen the penalties in pre-trial negotiation. Even if an outright acquittal is not possible, a skilled Tampa DUI lawyer can make sure that your penalties are as light as possible. In many cases, the state is willing to negotiate to a lesser charge for first time offenders. This would mean a “reckless operation” citation instead of a devastating BUI charge.

Make no mistake about boating under the influence. It is serious and can have many of the same negative consequences as driving under the influence. This means it is vitally important that you get a Tampa BUI lawyer on your side, and Musca Law is here to help.