It’s no secret that drunk driving is dangerous – not to mention illegal. Unfortunately, despite strict DUI laws in Alabama, motorists continue to get behind the wheel after having one too many. So how often do people sustain injuries in drunk-driving accidents? The answer might surprise you: According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, an injury crash involving a drunk driver happens every two minutes in the United States.
Motorcycle riders are at a particularly high risk of crashing when they are intoxicated. The vehicle’s two-wheel structure makes it unstable, which can be deadly when a rider’s coordination is impaired by alcohol. Alcohol also reduces reaction time and encourages riskier decisions. Unfortunately, even sober riders can get in accidents. If you were injured in a crash that another driver caused, contact Morris Bart & Associates, LLC.
Here is a brief overview of the dangers of drinking and riding:
The Dangers of Riding under the Influence
Even a single unit of alcohol can impact your judgment when riding a motorcycle. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, at a blood alcohol concentration of just 0.01 to 0.04, riders are less critical of their own actions, experience slower reaction times, and may become mentally complacent.
Riders with a BAC of 0.05 cannot perform complex tasks or properly anticipate accidents. A BAC of 0.08 or higher will severely impact the rider’s judgment and analytical abilities.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Effects of Alcohol on Rider Safety
According to the MSF, alcohol impairs motorcyclists on three distinct levels. Riders who have consumed alcohol will experience difficulty completing these tasks:
- Searching for hazards that may cause accidents;
- Evaluating how these hazards may pose a risk;
- And executing a plan of action to avoid hazards.
How to Avoid Drunk Riding Accidents
The most effective way to avoid drunk riding accidents is not to operate a motorcycle after consuming alcohol. Even a low BAC can increase your risk of crashing.
You should also avoid other motorists who show the signs of intoxication. Common indicators include:
- Abnormal braking and acceleration patterns;
- Stopping far before or after a stop line;
- Swerving in one lane or into adjacent lanes;
- Drifting onto the shoulder;
- Almost hitting an object in the road;
- Failure to use a turn signal, or using the wrong turn signal;
- Or forgetting to turn on the headlights at night.
Unfortunately, even the safest and most responsible motorcycle riders are vulnerable to negligent motorists. If you were injured by a reckless driver in Alabama, contact Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Birmingham can help you pursue the maximum compensation and avoid mistakes such as unknowingly admitting fault to insurance adjusters.
Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
