What can happen if a boater refuses to take a sobriety test when requested?

A boater who refuses to take a sobriety test when requested can face significant consequences due to implied consent laws. Implied consent means that by operating a boat on public waters, the boater agrees to submit to sobriety testing when requested by law enforcement. If they refuse, they can have their operating privileges suspended for a specific period, typically up to six months. This serves as a deterrent against operating a vessel under the influence, as refusal signals non-compliance with safety regulations designed to keep everyone safe on the water.

Other options, such as immediate fines, incarceration, or warnings, do not accurately reflect the standard legal consequences tied to refusing a sobriety test in this context. The system aims to encourage cooperative behavior while maintaining high safety standards among boaters.