Operating Under the Influence
Connecticut law prohibits anyone from boating under the influence (BUI)—that is, operating a boat or a PWC, or manipulating water skis or similar devices, while under the influence of alcohol or any drug or both. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times. Alcohol is a major contributor to boating accidents and fatalities.
- Connecticut law states that a person is considered to be "under the influence" if the concentration of alcohol in his or her blood is 0.08% or more based upon a chemical analysis of breath, blood, or urine.
- If an operator is under the age of 21, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.02%.
