Tyler Boating While Intoxicated Attorney

Smith County BWI Defense Lawyers

Guess what? It’s also against the law to be intoxicated while driving a boat! So, a weekend on the lake can turn into a nightmare if not careful.

While the ‘field sobriety tests’ are quite different, the premise remains the same. One cannot (should not) operate a boat while intoxicated. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department can stop a boat and check its occupants for occupancy limits or life preservers at a whim. If alcohol is suspected the situation changes drastically.

How is a BWI Charge Determined?

If available (convenient to the officer), you will be taken ashore and given the standard field sobriety test. Otherwise, the TPW officials will command you to board their craft and perform tests on the open water while the boat is rocking and yawing. That can accentuate the suspicion that you have lost your normal faculties. The ‘tests’ are ridiculous. There are hand claps, rocking and seated patting of your hands to determine if you are intoxicated or not. You may even be required to submit to a blood or breath test. If refused, a warrant will be obtained and forced to give blood.

Understanding BWI Charges

Boating while intoxicated (BWI) charges can have serious legal consequences, and it's important to understand how these charges are determined. Factors such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC), the presence of any controlled substances, and the operator's behavior can all impact the severity of the charges.

Our Tyler BWI defense lawyers have extensive experience in handling BWI cases and can provide expert legal guidance to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. Whether you're facing a first-time offense or have prior BWI convictions, we can develop a strategic defense to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Don't wait to seek legal representation for your BWI case. Contact John J. Eastland Attorney at Law, P.C. today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.

Why Hire John J. Eastland to Help With Your BWI Case?

Having handled numerous Boating While Intoxicated cases on the Texas riverways, including those in Houston, Conroe, Galveston, League City, and Livingston, the attorneys at John J. Eastland Attonrey at Law, P.C., have extensive experience.

As with a DWI or DUI arrest, a Boating While Intoxicated arrest can damage your valuable reputation.

As a matter of fact, the penalties for BWI are the same as for DWI, as well as the same negative impact on your career and family.

If you have further questions if you have been charged with a Boating While Intoxicated case please call me.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the penalties for Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) in Texas?

The penalties for BWI are the same as for DWI, including fines, potential jail time, and the same negative impact on your career and family.

Can I refuse to take a field sobriety test while boating?

If you refuse to take a field sobriety test while boating, a warrant can be obtained to force you to give a blood sample for testing.

What are the differences between a BWI charge and a DWI charge?

While the premise of not operating a vehicle while intoxicated is the same, the field sobriety tests for boating are different, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department can stop a boat and check its occupants for occupancy limits or life preservers at any time.

Contact Us Today

Practicing Criminal Law Since 1985

John J. Eastland Attorney at Law, P.C. John J. Eastland Attorney at Law, P.C.
John Eastland has developed a reputation in East Texas for being a relentless, tenacious advocate for his clients in DUI cases.

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