Boating While Intoxicated

Montana law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated (BWI)—that is, operating or being in actual physical control of a motorboat, PWC, sailboat, water skis, surfboard, or similar device while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times. Alcohol contributes to about one-third of all boating accidents nationwide.