BUI Attorney in Shreveport 

What Is a BUI?

Unfortunately, boating accidents are not uncommon in a city like Shreveport, known for its thriving boating and water sports activities. Navigating the waters demands a clear mind and a steady hand, and indulging in alcohol or drugs can jeopardize the safety of everyone on board.

Therefore, understanding what a BUI entails is paramount. Boating under the influence is a legal charge for operating a watercraft while impaired by alcohol or drugs. As a DUI applies to vehicles on the road, BUI encompasses the impaired operation of all waterborne vessels. The legal ramifications and potential consequences associated with BUI are similar to those of a DUI.

Operating any water vessel in Shreveport is a massive responsibility. Louisiana law explicitly prohibits operating a boat or any watercraft when:

• Your blood alcohol content (BAC) measures .08% or higher, akin to the limit for DUI in motor vehicles.
• You are under the influence of any controlled substance, limiting your ability to operate the vessel safely.
• You are under the influence of both alcohol and any legally obtainable drugs, a combination that can severely compromise your judgment and reaction times.
• You are solely under the influence of alcohol, which can significantly hamper your coordination, focus, and overall competence.

Arrests for BUI in Louisiana occur when law enforcement officers observe a watercraft’s erratic, reckless, or careless operation. Such behavior raises suspicions of impairment, prompting officers to initiate a BUI investigation. The arrests can also arise during routine boat inspections where the officers detect signs of intoxication.

What to Expect If You Are Stopped for a BUI in Shreveport

BUI arrests in Shreveport can result in prosecution or even conviction. Usually, this depends on the strength of the evidence gathered during the arrest. Such proof includes witness statements, video evidence, and other relevant information. When you are stopped for a BUI, the police will start by asking for your ID and boat registration.

Next, they want to know how much you have had to drink. You don’t want to lie to the police, but answering their questions isn’t mandatory. Instead, say that you’d like to speak to your attorney. Although they might not like it, if you’ve been drinking, this is the best approach to minimize the evidence they may collect against you. Law enforcement officers will occasionally order you to get on their boat.

They will proceed to conduct sobriety tests and administer breath tests to determine blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If you can reach your attorney, politely decline to take these tests. Reiterate that you are happy to cooperate but want to talk to your lawyer before taking them. A fine applies for the refusal to take a breathalyzer in the situation. However, the good news is that they can’t use this against you in a criminal BUI case.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a BUI?

Many individuals feel a sense of unease when they spot those red and blue lights approaching. It signifies being pulled over for a specific reason, potentially including a BUI. The situation can be as distressing as a DUI stop. If the evidence substantiates the BUI charge, it could lead to prosecution. Without a criminal defense layer, a conviction may amount to penalties such as:

• Fines
• License suspension 
• Mandatory boating safety courses

Potential imprisonment is also possible, especially in repeat offenses or severe impairment cases. The guidance of a seasoned legal professional is necessary when dealing with the nuances of BUI arrests in Shreveport. Our team of BUI lawyers specializes in unraveling the subtleties of such cases. We excel in formulating defense strategies, leveraging our profound understanding of these matters, and are committed to advocating for the optimal outcome on your behalf.