Boating is a favorite summer activity for families across Ohio, many of whom love to spend their afternoons and weekends out on the state’s beautiful lakes and rivers. However, as much fun as the water can be, it’s also inherently dangerous, which is why the state has regulations designed to protect the safety of you and everyone else on the water. Here are a few regulations every Ohio boater should know, from boating DUIs to mandatory safety equipment.

4 Important Ohio Boating Regulations You Should Know

1. Flotation Devices

Every vessel over 16 feet in length must have at least one Type IV flotation device, such as life preserver or buoy, as well as one life vest per person. Smaller vessels, canoes, and kayaks don’t have to carry the larger flotation devices, but there must be at least one life vest per person.

2. Proper Certification

Ohio law requires anyone operating a vessel with more than 10 horsepower to complete an approved boating course or pass an exam administered by the Ohio Division of Watercraft. If stopped, you’ll need to present proof that you have the proper certification, so keep it onboard in a watertight container.

3. Safe Operation

If a law enforcement officer decides that your vessel is unsafe to operate, they may direct you to return to shore until the problem can be corrected. Insufficient fire extinguishers or flotation devices, fuel leaks, and overloading are some of the most common examples of unsafe operation.

4. Boating DUIs

Under Ohio law, it’s illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher. A boating DUI offense carries penalties ranging from three days to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000, with even more severe penalties for subsequent convictions. In some cases, operating a vessel while intoxicated may even result in felony charges.

If you’ve been charged with a boating DUI anywhere in the Cincinnati, OH, area, let James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law, provide the spirited defense you deserve. For over a decade, he’s fought for the rights of defendants charged with a variety of offenses, achieving positive results in a wide range of difficult situations. Visit him online to learn how he can help with your boating DUI, follow his Twitter page for more legal updates and tips, or call (513) 503-7251 to speak with an experienced defense attorney today.