Boating Under the Influence
Washington law prohibits anyone from operating a vessel while intoxicated—that is, boat operation under the influence (BUI). This means operating any vessel while under the influence of alcohol or any drugs. 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.
Washington law states that a person is operating under the influence if he or she:
- Has a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight or…
- Exceeds the legal limit for boating under the influence of marijuana of 5.0 nanograms, which is consistent with Initiative 502 that made recreational use of marijuana legal or…
- Is under the influence of or affected by alcohol and/or any drug.
