Is Boating under the Influence (BUI) Illegal in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach is a beautiful spot for boating, and boating is a popular pastime throughout the area. While boating is a recreational activity, the person at the helm still owes an immense duty of care to everyone on the water. It is well understood that driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol is both illegal and extremely dangerous. Still, not everyone takes the matter as seriously when it comes to getting out on the water.

Boating under the influence is illegal in Myrtle Beach. If you’ve been charged with BUI, it’s time to consult with an experienced Myrtle Beach BUI defense attorney at L. Morgan Martin.

When BUI Charges Apply in Myrtle Beach

Just like impaired driving, it is against the law to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol. This translates to having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that is above the legal limit of .08 percent.

If the arresting officer has reason to believe that the person driving the boat is impaired to the degree that they can’t operate it safely, a BUI charge can apply. And this is true even if their BAC is below the legal limit.

BUI Charges in Myrtle Beach

A first BUI charge is generally a misdemeanor that carries all the following potential penalties:

• Fines of up to $200
• From 48 hours to 30 days in jail
• Community service hours
• A mandatory requirement for an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP) as well as a boating safety course
• The revocation of boating privileges for up to six months

With a second or third offense, these penalties escalate considerably. If the boat operator’s impairment leads to an accident that causes someone else to be harmed or killed, the charge rises from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Bringing Your Strongest Defense

In addition to the legal consequences associated with violating impaired boating laws, there are social consequences. These can include difficulties finding a job or renting a home, as well as experiencing an overall decline in your social standing.

In other words, bringing a strong defense from the outset is critical. For this, you’ll turn to a formidable BUI defense lawyer who will ably handle each of the following on your behalf:

• Guiding you through the challenging legal process with your rights intact
• Gathering all the available evidence, including any that the police or prosecution may be holding back
• Using that evidence to build a strong defense that the state has a difficult time refuting
• Being well prepared to take your case to court when having the charge dropped altogether isn’t an option, and when accepting a plea deal isn’t deemed the best course of action.

You Need an Experienced Myrtle Beach BUI Defense Lawyer on Your Side

The practiced Myrtle Beach BUI defense attorneys at L. Morgan Martin will leave no stone unturned in their focused efforts to resolve your case favorably. Learn more by contacting us online or calling 843-248-3177 today.