In Orange County, harbors, beaches and the Irvine Lake surround us. If you operate a boat or any other watercraft while under the influence of alcohol you are putting yourself and your passengers at risk. boating under the influence is a serious offense in Orange County. People over the age of 21 cannot operate a boat with a blood alcohol level of .08% or higher. Additionally, those that are under 21 may not operate a boat with a blood alcohol level of .01% or higher.
Boating under the influence is a misdemeanor and can have significant consequences. Upon a conviction for boating under the influence you could face up to 1 year in jail. While it is rare that you would receive jail on a first offense, it will go on your record. If you are operating a vessel while under the influence and cause injury to another person, it can be charged as a felony BUI.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for boating under the influence, the first call you should make is to a skilled Orange County BUI attorney.