Summertime is boating time in PA!
Whether you are sailing on Lake Marburg or canoeing in Cowans Gap State Park you have to be aware of the laws in relation to boating and alcohol consumption. This is because it is illegal to operate a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
This 4th of July weekend, Operation Dry Water has been announced which is a nationally coordinated effort between law enforcement agencies to enforce boating under the influence laws. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) waterways conservation officers (WCO) will be taking part in this enforcement effort.
“OPERATION DRY WATER” ENHANCED BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE ENFORCEMENT SET FOR 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND
06/30/2021
HARRISBURG, Pa. (June 29) – During the extended Independence Day weekend and throughout the summer, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) waterways conservation officers (WCO) will be focusing on keeping boaters safe by keeping impaired boaters off the water.
From July 2-4, WCOs will participate in Operation Dry Water, a nationally coordinated effort between law enforcement agencies, to conduct enhanced Boating Under the Influence (BUI) enforcement. Recreational boaters will notice an increase in the number of officers on the water and at recreational boating checkpoints.
What are the penalties for Boating Under the Influence in PA?
What many people do not realize is that the penalties for boating under the influence (BUI) are just as severe as the penalties for drunk driving. Take a look at some of the maximum penalties.
Boating Under the Influence First Offense Penalties
- Up to Six Months in Prison
- License Suspension up to 12 Months
- Fines up to $5,000
- Must take Safe Boating Classes
Boating Under the Influence Second Offense Penalties
If you had a prior BUI or DUI, there are enhanced penalties such as
- Up to 5 Years in Prison
- License Suspension up to 18 Months
- Fines up to $10,000
- Must take Safe Boating Classes
Boating Under the Influence Third Offense Penalties
Depending on your blood alcohol content, a third offense may be charged as a FELONY. That means:
- 1-7 Years in Prison
- License Suspension up to 18 Months
- Fines up to $15,000
- Must take Safe Boating Classes
- A host of other consequences that come with being a convicted FELON
In Pennsylvania, fourth and subsequent offenses are charged as FELONIES. Also, if the incident caused an accident or injuries, there are enhancements that can make the penalties even worse.
There is hope
The McShane Firm prides itself on its professionally aggressive representation of your BUI case.
We treat every case with extreme care and attention; no detail is left unexamined, regardless of the intensity of the crime because we know that this case is important to you.
Our attorneys are specially trained in the science behind intoxication cases and use that scientific knowledge to defend you. Call us today at 1-866-MCSHANE for your free case consultation.
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
