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A conservation officer visits with water enthusiasts.
A new blood alcohol law for automobile drivers --- .08 is the maximum BAC --- also is the new law for boat operators. The laws became effective July 1.
Indiana is one of only 11 states whose driving while intoxicated and boating while intoxicated laws coincide.
That means if you are boating with a blood alcohol content above .08, you are eligible for not only a fine but having points added to your driver's license as well.
"Indiana has always been a state that takes boating safety as seriously as it does safety on the highway," said Larry D. Macklin, director of the DNR. "We want Hoosiers to have a good time on Indiana's lakes and rivers, and we want them to have a safe time."
Seven people died in Indiana boating accidents in 2000; two were alcohol related. Indiana also experienced 12 other major boating accidents that were caused by intoxicated boaters. DNR conservation officers arrested 95 people in 2000 for boating while intoxicated.
Offenders can have their Indiana driver's license suspended as a result of a boating arrest.
Since 1995, anyone in Indiana arrested for boating while intoxicated is subject to having points added to their driver's license or could lose their driver's license for a boating violation. A prior conviction for boating while intoxicated or causing bodily harm or death makes a person eligible for prosecution for a class C or D felony.
