National Water Safety Month: What Ohio Boaters Need To Know About BUI Laws

With the increase in daylight hours and warmer temperatures, the spring and summer months represent some of the busiest times of year on Ohio’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Unfortunately, boat accidents in Ohio often increase during this time, especially when alcohol is involved.

Ourexperienced Sandusky boat crash lawyers want you to be aware of the risks of water safety. Find out what you need to know about Ohio boating under the influence (BUI) laws and how to protect your rights in the event of a crash.

Ohio BUI Laws Apply To More Than Just Motorboats

Under Ohio Revised Code Section 1547.11, it is illegal to operate or be in physical control of any vessel on Ohio waters while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. The legal limit is the same as for driving under the influence, which is 0.08 percent and above for adults and 0.02 percent and above for anyone under 21.

Ohio’s BUI law applies to more than just motorboats. Vessels covered under the statute include:

• Sailboats;
• Personal watercrafts like jet skis or dinghies;
• Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards;
• Any other watercraft operated on Ohio’s public waterways.

Keep in mind that even having just one or two drinks can cause impairments that increase the risk of boat crashes on Lake Erie. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) warns that alcohol continues to be the most common cause of crashes, which can leave boaters and their passengers with potentially life-threatening injuries.

What To Do When Alcohol-Related Boat Crashes in Sandusky Happen

When a boat crash on Lake Erie happens due to another boater being under the influence or engaging in other reckless behavior, you have the right to hold them accountable in a claim. Take these steps to protect yourself and your passengers:

• Call for emergency assistance immediately.
• Request medical care for yourself and any victims.
• Get contact information for the other boater involved and any witnesses who may have seen how the crash happened.
• Take photos of boat damage, the position of vessels, and any alcohol containers or other signs of potential impairment.
• Preserve any dashcam, GoPro, or marina surveillance footage that may have captured the incident.
• Report the crash to the ODNR, which investigates boating incidents statewide.

Before making statements to any insurers involved or accepting any settlements, get professional legal help from an experienced Ohio boat crash lawyer.

Contact Our Experienced Sandusky Boat Accident Lawyers Today

Boating under the influence is against the law and a leading cause of Ohio boat crashes. At Murray & Murray, our Sandusky boat crash lawyers investigate these cases, hold at-fault boaters accountable, and help victims get the maximum compensation they need to recover in a claim.

If you or someone you love is hurt, call or contact our office online today to request a consultation. We protect the rights of injured boaters throughout Sandusky, Ohio, and the surrounding areas.

Sources:

codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-1547.11

ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/news/safe-sober-boating-2025