Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, and the consequences can be severe. In southeastern North Carolina, where boating is a popular pastime, it’s essential to understand the risks involved, both legally and from an insurance perspective (not to mention the safety of your passengers, your family, and those around you).
Just like driving under the influence (DUI) on the road, operating a boat while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs is considered a crime. North Carolina law enforces strict penalties for those convicted of Boating Under the Influence (BUI), including:
Fines and penalties: Those found guilty of BUI can face hefty fines, mandatory safety courses, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the incident.
Suspension of boating privileges: A BUI conviction may lead to a suspension of your boating license, preventing you from legally operating your vessel in the future.
Increased liability for accidents: If you cause an accident while boating under the influence, the legal consequences could include liability for damages, injuries, or even death.
A BUI conviction can also impact your marine insurance coverage in several ways:
Higher premiums: Insurance companies may raise premiums for boaters convicted of BUI, seeing them as higher-risk clients.
Policy cancellations: In some cases, a BUI conviction may result in the cancellation of your boat insurance policy or a refusal to renew.
Limited coverage: Some policies may exclude coverage for incidents that occur while the boat operator is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
To avoid the legal and financial risks of boating under the influence, it’s important to:
Designate a sober driver: Just like on land, always have a designated driver if you plan to drink while on the water.
Understand the limits: Know the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for operating a boat in North Carolina, which is 0.08%, just like for cars.
Avoid drugs: Operating a boat under the influence of any drugs—whether prescription, over-the-counter, or recreational—is illegal and just as dangerous as drinking.
Not only is it your legal responsibility to stay sober while operating a boat, but it’s also your duty to protect yourself, your passengers, and other boaters on the water. Responsible boating helps ensure everyone’s safety and preserves the enjoyment of the water for others.
At Wells Marine Insurance, we’re committed to helping boat owners stay safe and protected on the water. If you have questions about how a BUI conviction might affect your insurance or if you need to review your coverage, contact us today. Our team will ensure that your policy fits your needs and helps you stay compliant with the law.