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Course Outline

Person in handcuffs; law enforcement vessel in the background

North Dakota law prohibits anyone from boating under the influence (BUI)—that is, operating any vessel or manipulating water skis, a surfboard, or any similar device while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, drugs, or a combination of both. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times. Alcohol is a major contributor to boating accidents and fatalities.

  • North Dakota law states that a person is presumed to be BUI if he or she has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10% or higher.
  • North Dakota law does not prohibit people of legal drinking age from consuming alcoholic beverages or possessing open containers in a boat.
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  • Topic 4 of 19
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