When most people think about drunk driving or driving under any influence, they tend to think about cars and trucks and other vehicles on the roads - and that is certainly a large chunk of most drunk driving offenses.
But boating while intoxicated is a serious problem as well - one that becomes even more serious as the summer months roll in.
The Law
For some reason, drinking and boating seem to be acceptable among the general public. It’s not uncommon for people driving a boat to have a few drinks while driving and with the other people on a boat. However, this is completely illegal and is just as bad as driving a car while drinking - a boat can do as much damage as a car or truck, and drunk driving is still drunk driving no matter what kind of driving it is!
The Problem
When driving a boat while intoxicated (at any level) a few things tend to happen. Drunk Drivers lose their inhibitions. Drunk Drivers ignore water laws. They drive the wrong way, drive too quickly, or wind up entering a zone that was meant for swimmers. Often, a drunk boating driver may be pulling someone behind the boat that is enjoying a water sport - many drowning deaths happen annually due to this type of accident.
The fact of the matter is that the driver of any boat must remain sober. This might mean making sure that only one person drives a boat at one time (it’s not a good idea to let everyone on board drive!), but it is the only way to make sure that you - and other people around you - remain safe.
Wrongful Death
If you have a friend or family member that was involved in a boating accident due to drunk driving, that person’s family does have rights. It is our job to make sure that all drivers - regardless of the vehicle being driven! - are sober, responsible and held accountable for their actions.
If you think that you have a wrongful death or personal injury case that involves boating, please contact the Dellutri Law Group today for a FREE case evaluation.
