If involved in a boating accident causing serious bodily injury or death while boating under the influence, the operator has committed a . felony misdemeanor non-criminal offense liability

felony

Explanation:

It is an offence on the part of a boat operator who is under the control of alcohol while boating, as such could result in property damage, serious bodily injury or death. Where such leads to bodily injury or deaths, the operator could be convicted for felony while misdemeanor applies to property damage.

There have been a reoccurring boating incidence in the country especially in the state of Florida, which has the highest number of boating fatalities hence created stiff penalties for boating under the influence of alcohol.

While it is adviseable for motorists not to drink and drive, it is also not lawful be under the influence when boating as such could cause injury, deaths or property damage and such operator would receive appropriate penalty depending on the outcome of the incident.