DNR Rangers enforce boating laws … even if you whine, flirt, cry or try Jedi mind tricks. ~~ Photograph by Robert Sutherland

Those new laws governing blood alcohol limits while operating motor vehicles in Georgia — including boats — are now in effect.  The Georgia Department of Natural Resources and TEAM Georgia remind you to refrain from drinking alcohol while operating boats.

“Alcohol, mixed with boating activities, can create dangerous conditions that can lead not only to an arrest, but also to tragedy so we want to emphasize responsibility and safety, especially during the increased traffic expected on holiday weekends,” says Lt. Col. Jeff Weaver, assistant chief of DNR Law Enforcement Division.  “Boaters also need to be aware that the legal limit for boating under the influence has changed from 0.10 to 0.08, equalizing boating legal limits to driving legal limits.”

The marine environment — waves, engine noise, water, sun and wind — accelerates impairment and fatigue in recreational boaters.  Hazardous situations abound when fatigue is combined with the effects of alcohol.

“It is not illegal to have alcohol in an open container on a boat, nor is it illegal for a person operating a boat to drink.” says Weaver.  “However, if a person is over the age of 21 and has a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher, they are presumed to be less safe and may be charged with boating under the influence.”

People arrested for BUI may lose their privilege to operate a boat.  These privileges are not reinstated until the successful completion of an approved Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program.

The offender will be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable with up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 12 months in prison.

“Operating a boat is as complicated as driving a car, and a boating incident is as dangerous as an automobile accident,” says Ron Fennel, chairman of TEAM Georgia.  “However, many people who would never drive a car intoxicated think it is okay to operate their boat after drinking.  Operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal and hazardous to themselves and others on the water.”

To help emphasize safe driving and boating, TEAM Georgia will reward those who register as a designated sober operator with a chance to win prizes.  To Register Online Click Here

Be wise.  Don’t drink and drive.

Click Here for GA’s New Boating Regulations