A person operating a boat has the same safety responsibilities as a person driving a car. For this reason, Wisconsin has strict laws when operating a boat under the influence of alcohol. This charge, called boating while intoxicated (BWI), carries severe penalties. Below, learn more about Wisconsin's BWI laws and how an OWI attorney can help if you face this charge.

What Qualifies As a BWI?

To meet the legal threshold for boating under the influence, you must have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more. If you are a commercial boater, you can only have 0.04% BAC. However, you can still face a BWI charge even if your BAC falls below these numbers. If the police notice that you have alcohol and cannot safely operate, maneuver, or control the boat, they can charge you with a BWI. You can also get a BWI if there is any detectable amount of illegal substances in your system—even if no alcohol is present.

What Are the Penalties?

A first-time offender can receive a fine between $150 and $300. If you have a second BWI offense within five years, you can spend up to six months in jail with a fine between $300 to $1,000. A third offense with two convictions in the previous five years results in up to a year in jail and a $600 to $2,000 fine. If you are boating under the influence and injure another party, you can also spend one year behind bars with a fine between $300 and $2,000, regardless of previous convictions.

How Can an OWI Attorney Help?

An OWI attorney will investigate the details of your case and help you explore all available legal options. Often, lawyers can create a plea bargain with prosecutors and reduce the penalties. Every BWI case is different, so each situation requires a customized legal strategy. A lawyer ensures that your plan is effective, and they represent you at every stage of the case.

Don't let a BWI charge affect your life, freedom, and future. The OWI attorneys at Scott & Heenan can help. Since 1999, they have been representing clients throughout Grant County, WI. They offer legal services in criminal law cases, personal injury lawsuits, estate planning, and other practice areas. Call (608) 348-9506 to schedule a consultation.