Operating Under the Influence
No person shall operate or be in physical control of any vessel underway, or manipulate any water skis or similar device, if the person is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment (you're more inclined to take risks when drinking), and slower reaction times. Alcohol contributes to about one-third of all fatal boating accidents nationwide.
- Ohio law states that a person is considered to be operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs if he or she:
- Has a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.08% or greater or...
- Is under the influence of any controlled substance or any other drug, or any combination of alcohol, controlled substance, or drugs that renders that person incapable of operating safely.
- Ohio law further states a person under 21 years of age is considered to be under the influence if his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is at or above 0.02%.
