South Carolina’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waters are major attractions for Memorial Day fun. Boaters from across the state and beyond head to popular spots like Lake Murray, Lake Marion, the Intracoastal Waterway, and coastal destinations to enjoy the long weekend. The weather is usually perfect, the water is inviting, and people are ready to relax. But as boat traffic increases, so do the number of Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests, and many boaters don’t realize just how serious those charges can be until it’s too late.
BUI Is Not a Lesser Offense Than DUI
In South Carolina, a BUI is every bit as serious as a DUI on the road. The law makes no distinction in terms of severity simply because the offense occurs on water rather than pavement. The legal blood alcohol limit for boaters is the same as for drivers: 0.08 percent. If you’re operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can be arrested, fined, jailed, and lose your boating privileges. Some people believe that boating allows for more leniency when it comes to alcohol, but law enforcement does not share that view. A BUI conviction is a criminal conviction, and it carries real, lasting consequences.
Why Memorial Day Weekend?
Memorial Day weekend is a peak time for BUI arrests for several reasons. First, there is a significant increase in boaters on the water. Many of these individuals are casual or infrequent boaters who may not be familiar with proper navigation rules, anchoring practices, or how quickly alcohol can affect judgment on the water. Second, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) increases patrols during this period. Officers are out in force, monitoring boat traffic, stopping vessels for routine safety checks, and watching closely for signs of impairment.
Accident rates involving injuries or fatalities often spike during this weekend, which only increases the level of enforcement. In response to past tragedies, DNR officers are highly motivated to prevent accidents before they happen. That means more stops, more breath tests, and more arrests.
Consequences of a BUI Conviction
- Up to 30 days in jail for a first offense
- Fines and boating license suspension
- Permanent criminal record
- Increased civil liability if an accident or injury occurs
What to Do If You’re Arrested for BUI
If you are stopped and arrested for BUI, the most important thing you can do is remain calm. Cooperate respectfully with officers, but do not volunteer information. You are not required to admit to drinking or drug use. You are also not required to take field sobriety tests or other evaluations on the spot. Politely decline and contact a criminal defense attorney with experience in BUI defense as soon as possible.
At Truslow and Truslow, we understand how these cases work, and how to fight for your rights. Don’t assume a BUI is a slap on the wrist. It isn’t. It’s a serious criminal charge that can affect your future.If you’ve been arrested for BUI over Memorial Day weekend, contact us immediately for a consultation.