Drunk Boating– Important Changes to Michigan Law

Michigan residents look forward to spending their summer near and on the water. At McCroskey Law, we encourage you to assign a designated driver, whether you are on the road or on the water. Additionally, changes to Michigan’s boating laws have made drinking and boating even more risky than ever. Here are a few things you should know about alcohol and Michigan boating:

1. The maximum blood alcohol content level for operating a boat is now .08. This is consistent with the blood alcohol content level for motor vehicles.
2. Under-age drinkers cannot have any alcohol in their system. While the blood alcohol content level for minors is .02, any alcohol can be considered a violation of the law.
3. Any drug use while boating is a criminal offense.
4. If there are children under the age of 16 aboard while the operator is intoxicated, an additional misdemeanor will be charged.
5. A third boating while intoxicated charge will result in a felony.
6. Refusing a blood alcohol test can result in a one-year operating ban.

If you have been charged with drunk boating, you should understand your rights. McCroskey Law’s criminal defense lawyers are ready to answer your questions and fight for you. Contact us today.