Injured by a Drunk Boat Driver
Many people do not understand the hazards of drinking while boating. Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in every state, including Tennessee. In 2023, 31 BUI arrests were made in the Volunteer State over the Fourth of July weekend alone.
Studies show that a drunk boater will have a higher level of impairment when compared to a drunk motorist. If a drunk boat driver has injured you, keep reading to learn how a Tennessee personal injury attorney can help you.
BUI Facts
Boating under the influence is becoming a growing national concern, with approximately 443,000 arrests being made each year. An impaired boater may experience any of the following symptoms:
- Impaired cognitive abilities: A drunk boat driver will have a more difficult time judging distance and making judgment calls.
- Coordination and visual issues: A drunk boater will experience visual disturbances affecting balance, coordination, and reflexes.
- Inner ear problems: Drinking impairs a person’s inner ear, which affects balance and the ability of a person to distinguish up and down.
- A false sense of warmth: Drinking causes a person to feel warm. An intoxicated individual may not realize that his or her body temperature is low until it is too late.
A drunk boat driver is ten times more likely to die in a boating accident with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .10 percent compared to a sober boater.
BUI Penalties in Tennessee
Operating a boat while impaired is typically charged as a class A misdemeanor. Tennessee imposes the following penalties for those operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs:
- First Offense: Imprisonment of 11 months, 29 days, a potential fine of $2,500, and a revocation of boating privileges for one year.
- Second Offense: Imprisonment of 11 months, 29 days, a potential fine of $2,500, and revocation of boating privileges for two years.
- Third Offense: Mandatory imprisonment of 30 days in prison, with potential imprisonment of 11 months, 29 days, a potential fine of $5,000, and revocation of boating privileges spanning from three to five years.
Injuries to Victims
A boat driver operating under the influence can cause innocent victims any of the following injuries:
Lacerations and Amputations
If a drunk boater collides with your vessel, you may be violently tossed around. There are many sharp surfaces on a boat, which can lead to lacerations. If you make contact with a boat’s propeller, you could potentially experience a traumatic amputation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
If you hit your head on a boat, you could sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI is caused by any strike or bump to the head, which disrupts brain function. Its effects can be long-lasting and range in severity.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Many watercraft accidents result in spinal cord injuries. A spinal cord injury is the result of damage to the nerves of the spinal cord. Common symptoms include loss of strength, lack of sensation, and paralysis.
Legal Action Available
While the state and U.S. Coast Guard will take legal action against a drunk boat driver, as a victim, you have the option to sue the driver. In filing a lawsuit, you will need to prove that the boater was negligent, resulting in your accident and injuries.
You can recover compensation for the following damages:
- Lost income
- Loss of future earnings
- Emergency room visit
- Surgeries
- Medical equipment
Speak with Our Tennessee Boating Accident Lawyers Now
A boating accident lawsuit can be convoluted, requiring that you have skilled representation to ensure that you will receive just compensation. If you have fallen victim to a boating accident, we are here to help. To schedule your complimentary consultation, contact us online or by phone.