Boating Alcohol Laws in Michigan: What You Need to Know

Whether it’s a relaxing sunset ride or a day-long excursion, boaters enjoy unwinding on Michigan’s 3,000 miles of Great Lakes coastline or its many inland lakes. However, many people don’t realize that drinking and boating can be just as deadly as drinking and driving. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Furthermore, operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a violation of Michigan’s boating alcohol laws.

WHAT DOES MICHIGAN LAW SAY ABOUT DRINKING AND BOATING?

Like motor vehicle laws, Michigan sets clear limits for alcohol use on the water and outlines when a boat operator may be considered legally impaired. Michigan law enforces a legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of .08% for boaters. Understanding how boating laws and alcohol use intersect can help you stay safe while on the water.

Here is a summary of the current boating alcohol laws:

• It is illegal to operate a boat with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of .08% or higher. This is the same legal standard that applies to motor vehicle drivers. Law enforcement will typically administer a breath, blood or urine test to determine whether someone is legally impaired.
• There is a zero-tolerance policy for boat operators under the age of 21. If these boaters are found with any amount of alcohol in their system, they can be charged with a misdemeanor. The charges can be more serious if they are involved in an accident where someone is injured.
• It is illegal for boat operators of any age to have any amount of a schedule 1 controlled substance in their system. These are drugs with high abuse potential, no medical use and serious safety concerns. Examples are heroin, LSD, MDMA (ecstasy) and psilocybin.
• Boat drivers who refuse to take a sobriety test after being stopped by law enforcement may be banned from operating a boat for one year.
• Drivers who operate a boat while violating boating alcohol laws with a passenger 16 years old or younger on board may be subject to a misdemeanor violation.
• Boat owners may not allow another person who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol to operate their boat.

In addition, alcohol is prohibited in certain Michigan state parks and at some boating access sites. Boaters and passengers alike should be aware of local restrictions before launching.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR OPERATING A BOAT UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL?

Violation of Michigan boating alcohol laws can result in serious criminal penalties, especially when boat operator impairment leads to injury or fatality.

Here are some of the legal consequences boat operators may face if they violate Michigan boating alcohol laws:

• Boat operators who are found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be charged with a misdemeanor.
• Boaters who are convicted three times within 10 years will be charged with a felony.
• Boat operators who cause serious bodily injury to another person while under the influence are guilty of a felony. They can face up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000.00 (but no less than $1,000), or both.
• Boat operators who cause the death of another person while under the influence will be convicted of a felony. The punishment includes up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000 (but no less $2,500.00), or both.
• Anyone who operates a motorboat on Michigan waters has automatically consented to be tested for alcohol or drugs at the request of law enforcement if arrested.
• Authorized law enforcement officials may stop and board a boat if they suspect a law is being violated.

These penalties reflect the serious dangers of operating a boat while impaired. Boating accidents can happen quickly, even without alcohol interference. Limiting alcohol use while on the water can help reduce the risk of accidents.

WHY PASSENGERS SHOULD LIMIT ALCOHOL INTAKE

While passengers on a boat are legally allowed to drink, excessive alcohol consumption can be dangerous. First, drunk passengers who are loud or disorderly can distract the boat driver and cause an accident. In addition, everyone on the boat should be able to react quickly and responsibly in case of an emergency.

SPEAK WITH AN EXPERIENCED BOATING ACCIDENT ATTORNEY TODAY

Boating accidents involving alcohol or drugs can result in serious injuries and potentially complex legal claims. If you or someone you love has been injured, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Michigan boating laws are complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.

Our experienced boating accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Fill out the form below or call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.