While many people love motorcycles and prefer them to cars, there are many risks associated with them. Motorcyclists are more exposed while on the road. If they were to get into an accident they do not have the protection of the body of a car like passengers of other vehicles do. Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die and 4 times more likely to be injured during an accident. When drugs and alcohol are involved those numbers increase. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident while under the influence you need the help of a skilled lawyer. Reach out to an experienced Pike County, KY motorcycle accident lawyer for legal advice today.
Can You Get a DUI While on a Motorcycle?
As with cars and any motor vehicle, you can get a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) while riding on a motorcycle. If you have consumed drugs or alcohol of any quantity you should not operate a motorcycle. A blood alcohol content level of 0.08 or higher is grounds for a DUI. Driving a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous. Repercussions can include fines, imprisonment, and license suspension.
What Are Some Risks of Riding a Motorcycle While Under the Influence of Drugs and Alcohol?
Besides the risk of exposing yourself to a potential prison sentence, hefty fines, suspension of driving privileges, community service, and more, there are also risks of physical harm when operating a motorcycle under the influence. A motorcycle accident can result in property damage to the motorcycle, other vehicles, and personal property or objects. It can also cause serious injuries and bodily harm. The following are risks associated with operating a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
- Your reaction time is reduced from intoxication. When riding a motorcycle it is important that you can react quickly to avoid any vehicle, pedestrian, object, or debris on the road. When a person is inebriated they are unable to process events quickly and make split-second decisions.
- Intoxication can affect your depth and distance perception. You may not realize how close a vehicle is to you or how fast it is approaching and you could cause a collision.
- You may also feel overly confident when riding under the influence. Drugs and alcohol can make you feel invincible, leading you to make poor and risky decisions that could get you or someone else hurt.
- Your vision can also be affected by the use of drugs and alcohol. Your eyes can be ultra-sensitive or blurry. You may be unable to see dangers approaching.
- Coordination is an important part of riding a motorcycle and that skill can become insufficient when you are drunk or high. You could find it difficult to make turns, reach the brake, or shift gears when needed. You could also lose your balance while riding or stopped and end up tipping over.
