Final answer:
Refusing to submit to a breath test when arrested for suspected BUI can result in a fine, boating license suspension, and imprisonment, or a combination of these penalties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The penalty for refusal to submit to a breath test when lawfully arrested for an alleged violation of boating under the influence (BUI) can vary depending on the jurisdiction. However, common penalties include a fine, suspension of boating license, and possibly imprisonment. Often, the penalty can encompass all of the above, meaning that refusing a breathalyzer test can lead to multiple consequences.
When boating, alcohol intoxication is often defined by a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of a certain level, similar to driving a vehicle. A Breathalyzer device is used to measure the approximate BAC by analyzing the alcohol concentration in a person's breath. It is important for boat operators to know that just like operating a motor vehicle, the law requires compliance with alcohol testing when suspected of BUI, and refusal to comply can lead to serious legal repercussions.