Boating is one of the favorite summer activities here in the Lakes Region; one we hope you will enjoy safely. It is important to note that New Hampshire’s Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws extend beyond dry land.

Boating Under the Influence (“BUI”) laws refer to the prohibition of operating or attempting to operate a boat while impaired by drugs or alcohol. You can be charged with BUI not just for operating motorboats or jet skis, but also non-motorized watercrafts such as sailboats, canoes, kayaks, or even paddleboards.

When you operate a boat on public water you are deemed to have consented to certain sobriety tests, just as you are while operating a vehicle on land. This means that you may be asked to complete certain physical tests and examinations for the purpose of determining whether you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Your failure to consent to these tests could be used against you at trial and will cause you an administrative loss of license.

If you are convicted of BUI, you could face a number of penalties, including:

• Suspension of your boater operation privileges for one year
• Suspension of your driver’s license for at least nine months, and up to two years
• Fines up to $1,200
• Mandatory completion of the impaired driver program
• A conviction on your criminal and motor vehicle record

These penalties are increased if, at the time in question, you:

• Operated a boat in excess of 30 miles per hour over the speed limit
• Caused a boating collision resulting in serious bodily injury
• Attempted to elude pursuit by a law enforcement
• Carried a person under the age of 16 as a passenger
• Had an alcohol concentration of 0.16 or more

If are charged with BUI, it is important to contact an experienced defense lawyer. Attorneys Allison Ambrose and Kathrine Lacey have years of experience defending clients who have been accused of driving or operating under the influence. They recognize the significance of these charges, and they will zealously defend you and your rights.