This week, a Morgantown man pled guilty to the offense of Boating Under the Influence of drugs and alcohol and receive nine months of house arrest at sentencing. The man who is the subject of the news article lost control of his boat after falling from behind the wheel. Reports indicate that speed, alcohol, and other drugs played a part in the accident. Fortunately, the article does not indicate that anyone was injured.
Operation of a motorized watercraft is a privilege the same as it is to operate a motor vehicle. Many West Virginians take their motorized watercraft out each weekend to enjoy the fresh air and sun on many of the state’s waterways. However, operating a motorized watercraft, such as a boat or jet ski, after consuming drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous to the health and safety of all individuals in the watercraft or the water. Boating accidents have been known to cause serious bodily injury or death in the state of West Virginia and throughout the United States. If you or your loved one has been involved in a boating accident which resulted in physical injury or other damages, contact Colombo Law today for a no-risk initial consultation.
West Virginia Law on Consuming Alcohol and Boating
The West Virginia Legislature prohibits any individual from operating a motorized watercraft in the following circumstances:
- While under the influence of alcohol (this is known as general impairment);
- While under the influence of a controlled substance;
- While under the influence of any other drug;
- While under the influence of a combination of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug; or
- While having a blood alcohol content of .08 or more by body weight;
Operating a motorized watercraft while under the influence can result in criminal penalties. However if you have been injured in an accident or incident as a result of another individual’s intoxication, you should consider civil remedies.
Personal Injury Claim After Boating Accident or Incident
When an accident or incident occurs due to another individual’s reckless behavior that individual should be held liable for any damages sustained. While the criminal system does achieve justice in most instances, criminal penalties that the offender suffers does not put you back in the position that you were in prior to the accident or incident. You deserve monetary relief for your injuries. The attorneys at Colombo Law are willing to assist you with any personal injury claim to help you obtain fair compensation for your damages. We will work tirelessly to determine all individuals at fault, maximizing your probability of success.
Contact Experienced Personal Injury Law Attorneys
Colombo Law is a personal injury firm with experienced personal injury lawyers. Our firm handles cases in and around Morgantown, Fairmont, Clarksburg, Bridgeport, Kingwood, Grafton, Weston, Philipi, Buckhannon, Elkins, and Parkersburg, as well as Monongalia, Marion, Harrison, Preston, Taylor, and Lewis counties. For an initial consultation, contact our office today.
