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DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.
- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com
The DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:
DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Howell, NJ.
DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.
DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike Howell Living History Farm near Howell, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.
Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Howell, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.
Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.
Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from Havenwood Montessori School in Howell, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.
Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Twin Lights State Historic Site in Howell, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.
Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.
1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Howell, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.
2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.
3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Howell, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Howell, NJ
10 most expensive homes sold in the Howell area, April 28 - May 4
Real Estate Newswirehttps://www.nj.com/realestate-news/2025/05/10-most-expensive-homes-sold-in-the-howell-area-april-28-may-4.html
A house in Howell that sold for $2.1 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.In total, 20 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $639,614, or $304 per square foot.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of April 28 even if the property may have been sold earlier.10. $577K, single-family home at 265 Ramtown Greenville RoadThe ...
A house in Howell that sold for $2.1 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.
In total, 20 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $639,614, or $304 per square foot.
The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of April 28 even if the property may have been sold earlier.
10. $577K, single-family home at 265 Ramtown Greenville Road
The 1,480 square-foot single-family house at 265 Ramtown Greenville Road, Howell, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $577,000, $390 per square foot. The house was built in 1960. The deal was finalized on April 15.
9. $630K, single-family residence at 3 Cripple Creek Road
The property at 3 Cripple Creek Road in Howell has new owners. The price was $630,000. The house was built in 1985 and has a living area of 1,615 square feet. The price per square foot is $390. The deal was finalized on April 11.
8. $638K, single-family house at 102 Old Bridge Drive
The sale of the single family residence at 102 Old Bridge Drive in Howell has been finalized. The price was $638,000, and the new owners took over the house in April. The house was built in 1970 and has a living area of 1,930 square feet. The price per square foot was $331. The deal was finalized on April 10.
7. $650K, single-family home at 9 Weymouth Drive
A sale has been finalized for the single-family house at 9 Weymouth Drive in Howell. The price was $650,000 and the new owners took over the house in April. The house was built in 1985 and the living area totals 1,840 square feet. The price per square foot ended up at $353. The deal was finalized on April 11.
6. $660K, single-family residence at 509 Middle Lane
The property at 509 Middle Lane in Howell has new owners. The price was $660,000. The house was built in 1955 and has a living area of 1,683 square feet. The price per square foot is $392. The deal was finalized on April 10.
5. $668K, single-family house at 18 Bock Blvd.
The 2,156 square-foot single-family house at 18 Bock Blvd. in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $667,500, $310 per square foot. The house was built in 1971. The deal was finalized on April 10.
4. $730K, single-family house at 2562 Lakewood Allenwood Road
The sale of the single-family residence at 2562 Lakewood Allenwood Road, Howell, has been finalized. The price was $730,000, and the new owners took over the house in April. The house was built in 1949 and has a living area of 1,312 square feet. The price per square foot was $556. The deal was finalized on April 9.
3. $731K, single-family home at 32 Driftwood Drive
The 1,620 square-foot single-family home at 32 Driftwood Drive in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $731,000, $451 per square foot. The house was built in 1985. The deal was finalized on April 11.
2. $738K, single-family residence at 3 McQueen Blvd.
A sale has been finalized for the detached house at 3 McQueen Blvd. in Farmingdale. The price was $738,000 and the new owners took over the house in April. The house was built in 1980 and the living area totals 2,203 square feet. The price per square foot ended up at $335. The deal was finalized on April 15.
1. $2.1 million, single-family house at 1460 Us Highway 9
The 10,819 square-foot detached house at 1460 Us Highway 9, Howell, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in April and the total purchase price was $2,100,000, $194 per square foot. The commercial was built in 2000. The deal was finalized on April 9.
Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.
Six most expensive homes sold in the Howell area, March 31 - April 6
Real Estate Newswirehttps://www.nj.com/realestate-news/2025/04/six-most-expensive-homes-sold-in-the-howell-area-march-31-april-6.html
A house in Howell that sold for $1.3 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.In total, 10 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $818,488, or $385 per square foot.The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of March 31 even if the property may have been sold earlier.6. $375K, single-family home at 5 Porter RoadA sale has been fin...
A house in Howell that sold for $1.3 million tops the list of the most expensive residential real estate sales in Howell area in the past week.
In total, 10 residential real estate sales were recorded in the area during the past week, with an average price of $818,488, or $385 per square foot.
The prices in the list below concern real estate sales where the title was recorded during the week of March 31 even if the property may have been sold earlier.
6. $375K, single-family home at 5 Porter Road
A sale has been finalized for the single-family residence at 5 Porter Road in Howell. The price was $375,000 and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 1946 and the living area totals 696 square feet. The price per square foot ended up at $539. The deal was finalized on March 18.
5. $525K, single-family residence at 127 Locust Ave.
The 1,378 square-foot detached house at 127 Locust Ave., Howell, has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $525,000, $381 per square foot. The house was built in 1944. The deal was finalized on March 17.
4. $650K, single-family house at 10 Remsen Drive
The sale of the single-family house at 10 Remsen Drive, Howell, has been finalized. The price was $650,000, and the new owners took over the house in March. The house was built in 1986 and has a living area of 1,772 square feet. The price per square foot was $367. The deal was finalized on March 18.
3. $725K, single-family home at 78 Cascades Ave.
The property at 78 Cascades Ave. in Howell has new owners. The price was $725,000. The house was built in 1998 and has a living area of 2,170 square feet. The price per square foot is $334. The deal was finalized on March 14.
2. $858K, single-family house at 23 Gristmill Road
The property at 23 Gristmill Road in Howell has new owners. The price was $857,500. The house was built in 1998 and has a living area of 2,544 square feet. The price per square foot is $337. The deal was finalized on March 14.
1. $1.3 million, single-family residence at 423 Maxim Road
The 2,917 square-foot detached house at 423 Maxim Road in Howell has been sold. The transfer of ownership was settled in March and the total purchase price was $1,290,000, $442 per square foot. The house was built in 2009. The deal was finalized on March 13.
Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data.
Popular Celebrity Burger Restaurant Opening Exciting New Jersey Location
Matt Ryanhttps://943thepoint.com/mrbeast-burger-howell-nj/
MrBeast is basically the internet’s favorite rich guy who doesn’t act like a rich guy.His real name is Jimmy Donaldson, but no one really calls him that.Get our free mobile appHe’s known for doing completely over-the-top stuff on YouTube, like giving away a million dollars to a stranger, building an entire Willy Wonka chocolate factory, or challenging people to stay inside a circle for 100 days just to win half a million bu...
MrBeast is basically the internet’s favorite rich guy who doesn’t act like a rich guy.
His real name is Jimmy Donaldson, but no one really calls him that.
Get our free mobile app
He’s known for doing completely over-the-top stuff on YouTube, like giving away a million dollars to a stranger, building an entire Willy Wonka chocolate factory, or challenging people to stay inside a circle for 100 days just to win half a million bucks.
It sounds ridiculous, but somehow, it works.
He started out doing really random videos of counting to 100,000, reading the dictionary, or watching paint dry.
Then once the money started rolling in, he flipped the script and began giving it all away.
That’s kind of his whole thing now—spending a fortune to make people’s lives better, or at least way more interesting.
But don’t let the flashy giveaways fool you—he’s actually super smart about business.
He's got a snack company called Feastables and, of course, MrBeast Burger.
Instead of opening up one giant restaurant to start, MrBeast partnered with ghost kitchens all over the country.
So technically, there’s no “real” MrBeast Burger spot you can walk into.
You would just order on an app, and boom, burgers show up like magic through DoorDash or Uber Eats.
It’s kind of genius, especially for someone who already has millions of fans just waiting to try anything he slaps his name on.
READ MORE: Burger Chain With 12 New Jersey Locations Announces Closures
The burgers are greasy in a good way, and there’s even a grilled cheese that’s made by flipping the bun inside out. Not sure if that’s innovation or just chaos, but hey, it works.
And of course, everything’s named after his crew.
It was announced earlier this month that Arooga's restaurant, located on Route 9 in Howell, would be closing.
Most of us were thinking there would be a vacancy for quite some time, with business openings being few and far between these days.
An eagle-eyed MrBeast Burger fan noticed today that this same Arooga's location is already listed on the MrBeast Burger site as one of its New Jersey locations.
The Google Maps Street View even shows the old Arooga's as the exact location of the future MrBeast Burger.
No official word from the MrBeast Burger camp on when we can expect the new Howell location to be operational, but stay tuned.
Where To Get The Juiciest Burgers At The Jersey Shore
Sometimes...you just need a solid burger.
A Popular Howell, NJ Sports Bar And Restaurant Is Suddenly Closed
Buehlerhttps://943thepoint.com/ixp/392/p/aroogas-howell-nj/
The idea of owning and operating your own restaurant is a dream, for some at least.The idea of creating the perfect food menu paired with an amazing drink menu, while providing great service and becoming a local hot spot does sound cool.Get our free mobile appBut the restaurant business is an unforgiving one, and we've seen that a lot here at the Jersey Shore in the past few months, and the closures keep coming.TGI Friday announced that they'd be closing their location in Toms River in the near future, and even Ho...
The idea of owning and operating your own restaurant is a dream, for some at least.
The idea of creating the perfect food menu paired with an amazing drink menu, while providing great service and becoming a local hot spot does sound cool.
Get our free mobile app
But the restaurant business is an unforgiving one, and we've seen that a lot here at the Jersey Shore in the past few months, and the closures keep coming.
TGI Friday announced that they'd be closing their location in Toms River in the near future, and even Hooters says that it's filing Chapter 11 soon.
Just the other day I saw that Senza Cucina in Bayville had suddenly closed its doors for good, which really came as a shock!
Now, it looks like another popular Jersey restaurant is closing its doors, and this place was a go-to to enjoy a cold beer and a game.
READ MORE: This NJ Cheesesteak Spot Gives Philly A Run For Its Money
A Popular Sports Bar And Grille Is Suddenly Closed In Howell, NJ
Part of a small local chain, that had two locations in Jersey, it appears as though the Arooga's restaurant in Howell has closed its doors for good, according to APP.
Named after the sound the car horn of a Model T made, Arooga's was a popular spot to go to watch football and baseball and had a menu that featured cheesy hand-breaded mozzarella triangles, pulled pork nachos, wings, burgers, and handhelds.
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Arooga's still has its location in East Brunswick open and operational, and the chain features a few other locations in Pennsylvania as well.
Let's focus on something a little happier for a minute, like all the movies Seaside Heights is showing on the beach this summer.
Boating in NJ – Safety Tips, Know Before You Go
patch.comhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/howell/boating-nj-safety-tips-know-you-go
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Community CornerBe Prepared & Have Fun! Boating Safety Tips on ECOS, Weather, Speed and BUIBoat Safe US, Community ContributorWhen you’re operating a vessel...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Be Prepared & Have Fun! Boating Safety Tips on ECOS, Weather, Speed and BUI
Boat Safe US, Community Contributor
When you’re operating a vessel., whether it’s a boat or personal water craft (jet ski, sea-doo, etc…), there are several safety rules and tips to follow. In New Jersey, you are required to take a NJ Boat Safety course. The NJSP requires anybody that operates a motorized vessel to have an NJSP issued Boat Safety Certificate. Take the class and exam with Boat Safe US, and you will also be NASBLA certified (you can use your NJ boat safety certificate in other states). See our schedule at www.BoatSafeUS.com. Before going out on your boat, make sure everything is packed and is in working order, file a float plan, have multiple communication devices that work when wet, and ensure each person has a properly fitting USCG approved life jacket.
Here are some other tips to boat safely and responsibly:
Use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) – An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop an engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard. New Jersey is one of several states that require engine cut-off switches on recreational boats. The law applies to boats under 26 feet in length, unless they have an enclosed cabin or are not equipped with an ECOS. The operator of any vessel, including personal watercraft, equipped with a lanyard cut-off switch must wear the safety switch lanyard at all times when the vessel is in operation.
Watch the weather. Always know the forecast before departing on the water and check frequently during the outing. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on the weather conditions. Be smart and avoid boating in strong winds, heavy fog, thunderstorms, and any other bad weather. Dress for the weather on the water by wearing layers, a hat, etc., and always wear your life jacket. While you’re on the water, watch for signs of bad weather, like dark clouds, shifting winds, lightning and fog, for examples. Turn on navigational lights so other boaters can see you and slow down so you can maintain control of your vessel.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. While on the water, it is critical that there is a proper lookout. Always be alert of the effects of being on the water such as sunlight, motion, waves, wind and sound. Stay clear of large vessels and watercraft that may be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Finally, put down the cell phone and pay attention to your surroundings. Too many reported boating incidents are caused by an operator’s inattention or an inadequate lookout.
Find out what's happening in Howellfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds. Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones, and always travel at a safe speed. Use charts to determine your course. Respect speed limits and no-wake zones and do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended speed limit for your vessel. To determine a safe speed for your boat, take into account the visibility conditions (fog, mist, rain, darkness), wind, water conditions, currents, traffic density, type of vessels in the area and their proximity.
Never boat under the influence. BUI is ILLEGAL. As per the NJSP, “You are not permitted to operate a vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, a narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug”. Almost half of all boating accidents involve alcohol and one-third of all recreational boating fatalities involve alcohol. Alcohol can be more hazardous on water than on land. Many factors, such as heat, sun, wind, glare from the water, motion of the boat, and increased risk of dehydration can worsen the effects of alcohol on the body. Always designate a sober captain.
Remember, have fun by staying safe on the water. Boat responsibly! By following safety guidelines, you can fully enjoy your time on the water without putting yourself or others in danger.
See our Boat Safe US Blog for more safety tips and information: Captain's Blog | Boat Safe Us LLC
All of us at Boat Safe US hope to see you on the water!
Happy Boating!
#wearit #lifejacketsSAVElives #weloveboating #safeboating #njboating #boatsfafety
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