LAKE BLACKSHEAR, GA (WALB) -
That boat crash sparked an effort to make Georgia's Boating Under the Influence Law tougher.
Right now, .10 is the legal limit for BUI, while for DUI (driving under the influence) the limit is .08.
Now, the governor is proposing lowering the legal alcohol level for boaters to .08, as well.
DNR Ranger Tommy Lawrence is patrolling the waters of Lake Blackshear looking for boaters under the influence.
"There's a lot of drinking on the lake. A lot of people think they go hand in hand, so there is a lot of alcohol on Georgia's waters," said Ranger Lawrence.
The passengers on one boat that was pulled over had no alcohol on board. In fact they don't think boaters should be allowed to drink and boat.
"I think as long as you have a designated driver, you should be permitted to drink on your boat as long as you're not responsible for navigation," said boater Cheryl Foster.
Both Foster and Ranger Lawrence agree with the governor that the blood alcohol level for boating under the influence should be lowered from .10 to .08.
"I just think you should be responsible whether you're on the water or on the roads. I think it's a good idea," said Foster.
"I'm in favor of it because I think it will eventually keep everyone a lot safer," said Ranger Lawrence.
With temperatures expected to be in the 100's this weekend, DNR Rangers say you should be careful while drinking on a boat because you don't realize how intoxicated you are or can become while out here on the lake.
"The sun and wave action, all that comes into play and it seems like it doubles the effects," said Ranger Lawrence.
He wants boaters to be safe on the waters this weekend, so fun times won't end in tragedy.
Fines, jail time and loss of boating privileges can result from BUI. If you are pulled over and refuse to take a breathalyzer test, your boating privileges may be suspended for 12 months.
The governor will ask legislators to change the law when the legislature convenes next January.
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