State College DUI While Boating Attorney

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Charges in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know

Many people in Pennsylvania enjoy spending summer days on lakes and rivers, relaxing with friends and family—often with a few drinks. While it’s common knowledge that drinking and driving is illegal, many people overlook that drinking and boating is also against the law. If you’re caught operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can be charged with Boating Under the Influence (BUI)—a serious criminal offense in Pennsylvania.

At JD Law, P.C., we represent clients facing BUI charges in Centre County and Huntingdon County. Learn your rights and the penalties you could face under Pennsylvania’s BUI laws, and find out how we can help.

What Is Boating Under the Influence (BUI)?

Pennsylvania law prohibits operating a watercraft while impaired by alcohol or drugs, under 30 Pa.C.S.A. § 5502. A person can be charged with BUI for:

Boating Under the Influence charges apply whether you’re in control of a motorboat, jet ski, or any other type of watercraft.

Can You Get a BUI for Prescription Drugs or Marijuana?

Yes. Pennsylvania’s BUI law includes illegal drugs, controlled substances, and even legally prescribed medications. You can be charged with BUI if:

In cases involving prescription drugs, prosecutors often consult experts to determine whether drug levels were within therapeutic ranges. If levels exceed typical amounts, the prosecution may claim the operator was too impaired to safely operate the boat.

Penalties for Boating Under the Influence in Pennsylvania

Being convicted of BUI in Pennsylvania carries serious criminal penalties, including:

However, a BUI conviction does not result in a driver’s license suspension.

First-Time Offenders May Qualify for ARD

If this is your first BUI charge, you may be eligible for Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. ARD helps avoid a criminal conviction and can significantly reduce penalties. [Learn more about BUI and ARD eligibility here].

Charged with BUI, Contact JD Law, P.C.

At JD Law, P.C., we understand the serious consequences of a Boating Under the Influence charge in Pennsylvania. Attorney Jason S. Dunkle has over 20 years of experience representing clients facing BUI, DUI, and other criminal charges in State College, Lake Raystown, and surrounding areas.

If you’ve been charged with BUI, don’t wait.  For a free case review with an experienced BUI attorney, contact JD Law by email or leave a message at (814) 689-9139. Email is the preferred method of communication, as phone calls are directed to voicemail due to the high volume of spam and unsolicited calls.