Boaters Beware of Holiday BUI Busts
We’ve talked quite a bit about the increase in California DUI sobriety checkpoints and other DUI patrols due to the holiday season. The fact is that boaters should be more cautious of increased patrols as well.
A common California holiday tradition includes boat parades. People decorate their boats with holiday lights and other festive decorations and then tour harbors, bays, and lakes, displaying their designs. San Diego, Newport, and Ventura are just a few of the cities that routinely partake in this tradition.
People who participate in these parades are often drinking, enjoying the festivities and holiday spirit. But boaters beware…boating under the influence is a crime under California Harbors and Navigation Code 655.
Boating under the influence (BUI), pursuant to California Harbors and Navigation Code 655 prohibits operating a boat while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Unlike the laws that govern drinking and driving, people are allowed to operate (and ride in) boats while drinking alcoholic beverages, so long as they remain sober.
So while you’re taking advantage of the beautiful Southern California holiday weather, be safe…officers will be looking to make BUI arrests.
