Boating Accidents Involving Alcohol and Injuries Can Lead to Prison Time
For many people, boating and drinking are almost synonymous. On a hot summer day, nothing may sound more refreshing than an alcoholic drink. However, boating while under the influence of alcohol is also dangerous. Alcohol is the leading contributor to boating accidents and about a third of all fatal boating accidents involves impairment by alcohol.
Boating while intoxicated (BWI) is unlawful in Texas and violators can face misdemeanor charges for operating a boat while impaired. Usually, BWI is punishable by 72 hours to six months in jail. However, BUI consequences are much more severe if someone is seriously or fatally injured in a boat accident.
Boat Injuries and Deaths in Texas
Unfortunately, severe boat-related injuries and fatalities are more common than many realize. Boat collisions and other boat-related accidents can lead to brain injuries, spine injuries, electric shock, or drowning. If a boat operator is involved in a boat accident in which someone else is serious injured and the operator is intoxicated by alcohol, he or she can face intoxication assault charges.
BWI with injury or intoxication assault is a third-degree felony offense in Texas. If you are convicted of intoxication assault, you face up to ten years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. If someone dies in a BWI-related accident, the penalties are even more life-changing. Intoxication manslaughter is a Second-degree felony punishable by up to two decades in prison.
Legal Help for Individuals Charged with BWI Involving Serious Injury or Death
Boating while intoxicated involving an injurious or fatal accident can lead to felony charges punishable by many years in prison. If you or a loved one have been accused of causing a serious boat accident while under the influence, you need to speak to a lawyer right away. Your attorney will investigate your case and help you defend yourself against the charges.
Contact San Antonio BWI Lawyer Sam H. Lock
In Texas, it is illegal to operate a boat while intoxicated. Typically, a first-time BWI offense is a misdemeanor. However, if someone is seriously hurt or killed and the operator was under the influence of alcohol, the operator faces felony charges.
San Antonio criminal defense attorney Sam H. Lock has over a decade of legal experience. He can protect your rights and begin planning a robust defense case. Call the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock at 210-226-0965. Schedule your confidential consultation today.
Source:
https://maritime-executive.com/article/alcohol-leading-contributor-in-u-s-recreational-boating-accidents
