Florida consistently ranks at the top for boating accidents nationwide, and Georgia’s lakes and rivers also see their share of serious crashes. One of the most dangerous-and preventable-causes of boating accidents is boating under the influence (BUI). Just like driving a car while impaired, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts lives at risk. At Kelleher Law, we represent victims of boating accidents in Naples and Fort Myers, Florida, and Roswell, Georgia, helping them hold negligent boat operators accountable.
Why Boating Under the Influence Is So Dangerous
Operating a boat requires sharp attention, quick reflexes, and awareness of changing water conditions. Alcohol and drugs can impair:
- Judgment and decision-making
- Balance and coordination
- Reaction time
- Vision and depth perception
Unlike driving a car, boating often involves sun exposure, motion, and fatigue, which amplify the effects of alcohol and make impairment even more dangerous.
Legal Consequences of Boating Under the Influence
Both Florida and Georgia have strict laws against BUI:
Florida: It is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Penalties may include fines, jail time, and loss of boating privileges.
Georgia: The same 0.08% BAC limit applies, and violators face criminal charges, fines, and potential imprisonment.
When impaired boating leads to an accident, victims have the right to pursue civil claims for compensation.
Injuries Common in BUI Accidents
Boating accidents caused by impaired operators often result in severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (from impact or near-drowning)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Propeller-related lacerations or amputations
- Drowning or wrongful death
Who May Be Liable in a BUI Accident?
Liability often extends beyond the impaired boat operator. In some cases:
- The boat owner may be responsible if they allowed an impaired person to operate the vessel.
- Marinas, rental companies, or tour operators may face liability if they failed to enforce safety rules.
- Manufacturers could be liable if equipment defects worsened the accident.
Compensation Available to Victims
- Victims of BUI accidents may be entitled to damages for:
- Emergency medical treatment and ongoing care
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Wrongful death damages for surviving families
Why Victims Need a Boating Accident Lawyer
At Kelleher Law, we understand how complex boating accident cases can be. Our team:
- Investigates Coast Guard and law enforcement reports
- Collects witness statements and accident reconstruction evidence
- Works with medical experts to document the full impact of injuries
- Fights for maximum compensation from negligent parties and insurers
Serving Victims in Florida and Georgia
Whether an accident occurred on the waters near Naples and Fort Myers or on Georgia’s lakes near Roswell, Kelleher Law is here to help victims and families move forward.
