Several clients have mentioned recently that they are getting their boats ready for the lake or river. The weather is warming, and soon, Current River and Lake Wappapello will be full of people enjoying water recreation. Unfortunately, that also means that alcohol may be involved, leading to boating while intoxicated, which is a crime in Missouri.

Boating While Intoxicated

Missouri law prohibits boating while intoxicated. This includes intoxication due to alcohol or any barbiturate, narcotic or marijuana (Section 306.110 RSMo.). If you have a blood alcohol level (BAC) higher than .08% you are considered legally intoxicated in all fifty states, and this applies to boating while intoxicated in Missouri. Highways are the single most dangerous location for alcohol related accidents, but waterways are a close second.

Being on the water is physically draining, which can cause a lapse in reaction and judgment. When the boat is vibrating because of the wave strength, it affects your balance and vision, so being intoxicated on water is even more dangerous than being intoxicated on the road. Statistics show that boating with a BAC of .10 or higher increases your chances of dying in a boat accident. If you have made the mistake of boating while intoxicated, contact our criminal defense attorneys who are experienced in this field.

What is the range of punishment for BWI

A first conviction is a Class B misdemeanor
A second conviction is a Class A misdemeanor
A third conviction is a Class D felony

IMPORTANT: Paying a fine for a citation for BWI will result in a permanent conviction on your record.

Our law firm can immediately begin building a strong defense on your behalf. We explore all methods for defense, which include analysis of police reports, witness interviews, and the use of experts. We can develop the facts to determine if you were actually intoxicated. Our attorneys strive to help our clients avoid the consequences of a BWI conviction. Contact us immediately if you need help.

Our criminal defense lawyers also represent people in personal injury, wrongful death, and workers’ compensation cases. We provide quality representation for all of our clients with the goal of obtaining the best possible result in each case.