Talbot Partnership for Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse Prevention and the Talbot County Health Department warn that one-third of all boating fatalities are alcohol related. It is illegal to operate a boat, or to permit others to do so, while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or barbiturates. Paula Lowry, Prevention Coordinator for the Health Department advised that there have been 15 deaths directly water related in Maryland so far this summer.

According to Gary Pearce, Executive Director of Talbot Partnership, someone operating a boat with a Blood Alcohol Content (or BAC) of over .10% is 10 times more likely to die in a boating accident than someone driving a boat while sober. Boating under the Influence (BUI) is responsible for approximately 34 percent of fatal boat accidents every year.

The motion of the boat, vibration and engine noise as well as sun, wind and spray all make the effects of alcohol and drugs seem more intense. These conditions all add up to a dangerous drinking and boating experience.

Most boaters think of collisions as the greatest threat when drinking on the water. Yet, according to BOAT/U.S. Foundation for Boating Safety research, an estimated 75% of alcohol-related boating accidents and injuries do not involve collisions. In fact, falls on board or overboard, or missteps at the dock or getting in the dinghy, are a much greater threat when drinking afloat.

Penalties for BUI are the same as for someone who is charged with operating a car under the influence. These could include fines up to $5000, imprisonment of up to one year, non-paid public service work, and mandatory substance-abuse counseling. If an operator under the influence kills or seriously injures another person, the penalty can be up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5000.

For further information on the dangers of alcohol and other drugs, contact Talbot Partnership at 410-819-8067.