Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be extremely dangerous. According to statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol and drug use were the primary factors in approximately seven percent of all recreational boating accidents in 2010, resulting in 126 fatalities that year.
In recent years, alcohol has continued to be one of the leading contributing factors in fatal boating accidents. In 2024, reports indicated that there were 3,887 incidents, which resulted in 556 deaths, 2,170 injuries, and approximately $88 million in property damage.
To reduce these injuries and deaths, all 50 states and the federal government have made it a crime, and Massachusetts has some of the toughest boating under the influence (BUI) laws in the country.
What Counts as Boating Under the Influence in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts law, a person is boating under the influence if their blood or breath alcohol concentration is .08 or above — the same legal limit that applies to driving a car.
You can also be charged based on impairment from drugs, and the law applies to most vessels operating on state waters.
Penalties for BUI in Massachusetts
A BUI conviction in Massachusetts can carry serious consequences, including:
- Up to 30 months in prison
- A fine of up to $1,000
Penalties can climb higher when a BUI causes serious injury or death, and a conviction can affect your boating privileges as well.
Why Drunk Boating Keeps Happening
Even though state and federal law prohibit drunk boating, it continues to happen. A day on the water often pairs with alcohol, open sun, dehydration, and the motion of the boat.
This combination impairs an operator faster than many people expect. That impairment puts everyone on board and everyone nearby at risk.
Your Rights After a Drunk Boating Accident
Do you know what your rights are if you’re the victim of drunk boating? If a drunk boater caused your injuries, or if your loved one was killed in a drunk boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
If you or a loved one was hurt in a Massachusetts boating accident, the Massachusetts boating accident lawyer at Latti Associates LLC can help.
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.