Virginia DGIF Steps Up Enforcement of Boating Under the Influence | Virginia BUI Attorney

When it comes to drinking and driving, almost everyone is familiar with the risks and penalties. But what about drinking and boating, two activities which more traditionally go hand in hand?

Just because you’re driving on the water instead of pavement doesn’t mean the rules are any more lax. In fact, Virginia is stepping up its efforts to enforce Operating Under the Influence laws with Operation Dry Water.

Police officers with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries will be patrolling the waters looking for boat operators with a BAC of .08 or above. As always, there is a zero-tolerance policy for anyone under 21 years of age. Virginia looks at Boating While Intoxicated or Operating Under the Influence much the same way it looks at Driving Under the Influence. If charged, you will be arrested, and Virginia’s waterways have Implied Consent just as the roadways do—you are still subject to field and chemical sobriety tests.

And, as always, operator licensing applies. Check the Department of Game & Inland Fisheries website for more information.

Related posts:

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  2. 4 Things the Prosecutor Must Prove to the Court Before You Can be Convicted of DWI in Virginia
  3. DWI/DUI–Why are the Penalties so Severe in Virginia?
  4. Loudoun County Sobriety Checkpoint Yields 1 Arrest | Loudoun DUI Attorney

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