Boating While Intoxicated Attorney Austin, TX
Defending Against BWI Charges in Texas
Boating while intoxicated (BWI) in Texas refers to the act of operating a boat, watercraft, or any other vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs, similar to driving under the influence (DUI) on the road. Texas law prohibits individuals from operating a watercraft with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if their normal faculties are impaired due to the influence of alcohol or drugs. BWI offenses are taken seriously, and penalties can include fines, potential jail time, suspension of boating privileges, and other consequences, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.
Seeking the representation of an experienced Austin BWI lawyer is crucial if charged with boating while intoxicated in Texas. An experienced law firm can help navigate the legal complexities, challenge evidence, and work to mitigate or dismiss charges.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, our team is well-versed in the specific laws and regulations related to BWI in Texas, providing the necessary expertise to build a strong defense. Given the potential consequences, having a knowledgeable attorney can significantly increase the chances of a favorable outcome, whether through reduced charges, dismissal, or alternative sentencing options. Additionally, our skilled lawyers can guide you through the legal process, ensuring their rights are protected and helping them make informed decisions throughout the case.
For immediate help, contact our Austin BWI lawyers at (512) 359-3743 to discuss your case in a free consultation.
Understanding BWI Penalties in Texas
In Texas, it is illegal to operate a boat while intoxicated, just as it is to operate a vehicle. A first offense for BWI is a Class B Misdemeanor, and the penalty is the same as that for DWI.
- First-offense BWI: a fine up to $2,000 and/or jail time up to 180 days
- Second-offense BWI: a fine up to $4,000 and/or jail time up to one year
- Third-offense BWI: a fine up to $10,000 and/or jail time of 2-10 years
Additionally, for purposes of sentencing, BWI and DWI are interchangeable. Therefore, if you already have a DWI conviction and you are facing a BWI charge, this will be considered your second offense.
IMPORTANT: YOU ONLY HAVE 15 DAYS from the date of your arrest for BWI in Texas to request an administrative hearing about your driver’s license. If you do not, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended.
Contact Our Austin BWI Lawyer Today
The State of Texas aggressively prosecutes cases when alcohol is involved. This is why you need to mount an aggressive defense. The State of Texas is working against you. You need someone working for you. The Austin BWI lawyers at Smith & Vinson Law Firm will work for you. We represent clients accused of BWI in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Taylor, Hutto and around the Central Texas area.
Contact our Austin BWI attorneys now for a free consultation at (512) 359-3743.
BWI law is similar to DWI law, but there are two important differences.
The BWI Stop in Texas
In most cases on the road, police must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause (such as following too closely, weaving, or unable to maintain a single lane) to detain you. However, if you are on the water, this is not the case. Whether you are on U.S. waters or Texas waters, either the Coast Guard or a Marine Safety Officer, respectively, may detain you simply to ensure that you are in compliance with water safety law (referred to as a “water safety check”).
During the water safety check, if the officer finds any evidence that leads them to believe the operator is intoxicated, he or she can then begin a BWI investigation. Evidence such as empty beer cans, an odor of alcohol, bloodshot eyes, glassy eyes, open alcoholic containers, or any admissions to drinking and/or being drunk can be used by the officer. If the officer finds any of this evidence, he or she will then likely wish to perform field sobriety tests. Remember, you have a constitutional right to refuse to perform all tests.
Texas BWI Field Sobriety Tests
If detained for BWI, the officer has a few options when it comes to conducting field sobriety tests. The officer may conduct a set of tests on the boat called a seated battery, the officer may take you ashore and perform SFSTs (commonly known as roadside field sobriety tests), or the officer may ask you to perform both sets of tests. Remember, you have a constitutional right to refuse to perform all tests.
BWI Seated Battery
First, the horizontal gaze nystagmus test (HGN test) is conducted by checking for involuntary jerking movements in your eye as your gaze moves from side to side. Second, the Finger-to-Nose test requires you to tilt your head back and touch your finger to your nose. Third, the Palm Pat test is performed by placing one hand extended, palm up, out in front. Your other hand is placed on top with the palm facing down. Your top hand must then pat your bottom hand, rotating 180 degrees, alternating between the back and the palm of the hand. Your bottom hand remains stationary. With all of these tests, the officer is looking for clues or signs of intoxication. You do not get credit for performing any of these tests properly. But one small mistake in the performing the tests will be held against you.
SFSTs on Suspicion of BWI
If detained for BWI, you may be taken ashore and given a 15-minute break to recover from your “sea legs” before being asked to perform the roadside field sobriety tests. These include the HGN test, walk and turn, and one-leg stand.
As with the seated battery, the officer is looking for clues or signs of intoxication. Also like the seated battery, you will only get marked for things that you do wrong. These tests are very easy to fail, especially after being on a water vessel for any extended period of time.
Unreliability of BWI Tests
These tests are unreliable. Studies have shown that the marine environment itself introduces stressors that can make the test difficult, if not impossible, to pass. These stressors include heat, spray, boat motion, vibration, and glare.
Further, there is no scientific data that backs the 15-minute wait period as being sufficient to recover from these stressors. You should never attempt to take these tests. However, if you have taken them, don’t wait.
Representation for BWI Charges in Central TX
Texas has more square miles of inland water than any other state. Travis County boasts many beautiful lakes, and boating is a favorite Hill Country pastime. However, if you are caught drinking and boating, a fun day on the lake can quickly turn into a nightmare.
Much like a DWI, a BWI can be devastating to your personal and professional life. You need an attorney who knows the law, understands the process, and can educate the jury about the imperfections in the State’s evidence. A BWI case, though similar, is not the same as a DWI case. Don’t make the mistake of hiring an attorney who is not familiar with these differences.
Call Austin BWI lawyers Jarrod Smith and Brad Vinson. Our aggressive trial lawyers serve clients in Austin, Travis County, Williamson County, Hays County, or any of the surrounding areas in Texas.
Call (512) 359-3743 now to discuss your case with our Austin BWI attorneys.
```
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
-
Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
-
What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
-
When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
-
After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
-
Case Dismissed DWI
Our client was pulled over for failure to signal intent to turn. The arresting officer claimed the vehicle accelerated at a high rate of speed (67 MPH in a 30 MPH zone) resulting in a chase. When our client stopped, the officer noted the smell of alcohol on our client’s breath.
-
Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Solicitation of a Minor
Our client was a legal permanent resident with no criminal history when he was picked up for solicitation of a minor after a sting operation. He faced serious immigration consequences if convicted of a crime of this nature. In addition, the evidence against him was substantial and he was looking at prison time.
-
Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Two Counts of Sexual Assault of a Child and Four Counts of Indecency w/ a Child
Our client was indicted on two counts of sex assault of a child and four counts of indecency with a child. Our client confessed to the offense and there was substantial physical evidence corroborating that confession. The State aggressively prosecuted this case and sought significant prison time.
-
Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation
-
Not Guilty 2nd DWI
911 caller reported a major rollover, single car accident. EMS and fire arrived on scene. They had to break the window to get our client out of the car. He said he had swerved to miss a deer and had been up close to 18 hours before the crash. Police later arrived on scene, spoke to our client and he admitted to coming from a bar and drinking 2 martinis.