Savannah BUI Attorneys
What are Georgia's BUI Laws?
Georgia law prohibits boaters from operating any watercraft while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The law also dictates that watercraft owners cannot let someone else who is intoxicated drive their vehicle. This extends beyond boats to include water skis, sailboards, or any other water vehicles.
Boating under the influence (BUI) laws mirror those for DUI, charging anyone with a blood alcohol concentration above .08%, or above .02% if they are under 21. It also can be charged if drugs are detected. If you or a loved one have been charged with a BUI, it’s not too late to fight for freedom. Call Schneider Lerch, LLC for professional defense and a team dedicated to working towards dropping your charge.
Contact Schneider Lerch, LLC online or call (912) 417-5008 to fight your charge with our Savannah BUI defense attorneys today.
BUI Penalties in Georgia
BUI guidelines are similar to DUIs, and so are the consequences. The Georgia Boat Safety Act states that BUI is a misdemeanor punishable by:
- Possible loss of boating or operating watercraft privileges
- Fines up to $1,000
- Up to one year in jail
If you’ve been arrested for BUI, the officer may issue a notice suspending your boating privileges. You must contest this suspension within 10 days or risk losing your boating license for one year. Failure to appeal this suspension will result in immediate suspension of boating privileges.
Circumstances Resulting in Harsher Penalties
If you had a child under 14 on board at the time, you are also subject to a child endangerment charge. These allegations exist separately from the BUI and can result in a fine of $1,000 and a year in prison per child endangerment charge. While a single child endangerment charge is treated as a misdemeanor, three or more charges will be elevated to a felony and could result in up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Field Sobriety Tests
Unlike DUI cases where the police officer needs a cause to pull you over, your boat could be stopped even while abiding by all the safety regulations on the water. Officials are allowed to stop boaters on a whim for routine safety checks. During these, if they suspect the possibility of BUI, they have the power to test you and potentially make an arrest.
Georgia waters maintain the same implied consent rules as their roadways, where anyone operating a vehicle has consented to any alcohol or drug tests requested by an officer. To test sobriety on the water, law enforcement officials will often conduct the following tests:
- The Alphabet Recitation, where the boater will have to start and end on specific letters
- The Finger Touch Test, where the officer instructs you to touch your thumb to your other fingers while counting
- The Hand Pat Test, where the boater is told to count while turning over their hands and clapping
- The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test
- The Number Count, where the boater counts up to 20 and back down to 1 while the officer listens for irregularities
- The Preliminary Breath Test
Our attorneys will review any evidence the arresting officers collected and scrutinize it for inconsistencies or irregularities that could be used to weaken the evidence against you. We promise to aggressively come to your defense as we work towards dismissing the arguments of the officer and preserving your freedom.
How Our Experienced Savannah BUI Attorneys Can Help
When facing a BUI charge, having a knowledgeable and experienced legal team on your side can make all the difference. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we understand the intricacies of Georgia's BUI laws and are committed to providing personalized legal representation tailored to your unique situation. Here’s why we stand out:
- Expertise in BUI Defense: Our attorneys specialize in BUI cases and stay updated on the latest legal precedents and changes in legislation, ensuring you receive the most effective defense possible.
- Personalized Approach: We believe in building strong relationships with our clients. We take the time to listen to your concerns and develop a strategy that aligns with your goals.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has successfully represented numerous clients in Savannah and the surrounding areas, achieving favorable outcomes through negotiation and litigation.
- Comprehensive Support: From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we provide continuous support, guiding you through every step of the legal process.
- Free Initial Consultation: We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case, evaluate your options, and answer any questions you may have.
Don’t face your BUI charges alone. Trust the experienced team at Schneider Lerch, LLC to advocate for your rights and help you navigate this challenging time.
For more information about fighting a BUI charge in Savannah, contact us online or call us at (912) 417-5008.
Frequently Asked Questions About BUI Cases
Navigating the complexities of BUI (Boating Under the Influence) laws can be daunting. To help you better understand your situation, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that address common concerns and misconceptions surrounding BUI cases in Georgia.
1. What should I do if I am stopped by law enforcement while boating?
If you are stopped by law enforcement, it’s crucial to remain calm and respectful. You have the right to ask if you are being detained or if you are free to leave. It’s also advisable to provide your boating license and registration, but you should avoid answering questions about your alcohol consumption without legal representation.
2. Can I refuse a breathalyzer test while boating?
In Georgia, refusing to take a breathalyzer test can have serious consequences, including an automatic license suspension. However, it’s essential to understand your rights and the potential implications. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you make an informed decision.
3. How can a BUI conviction affect my future?
A BUI conviction can lead to significant penalties, including fines, community service, and even jail time. Additionally, it may impact your ability to obtain certain jobs, travel, or secure loans. Our legal team can help mitigate these consequences and guide you through the legal process.
4. What is the difference between a BUI and a DUI?
While both charges involve operating a vehicle under the influence, a BUI pertains specifically to operating a boat, whereas a DUI relates to motor vehicles. Each carries its own set of laws and penalties, making it essential to have knowledgeable legal representation for your specific case.
5. How can Schneider Lerch, LLC assist me with my BUI case?
At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we specialize in BUI cases and understand the nuances of Georgia's boating laws. Our experienced attorneys will work diligently to investigate your case, build a strong defense, and strive for the best possible outcome. We are here to support you every step of the way.
If you have additional questions or need personalized legal advice, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Your peace of mind is our priority!
Helpful Resources
At Schneider Lerch, LLC, you have an entire legal team on your side when dealing with serious criminal matters. We are ready to help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
