According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are approximately 28 drunk driving-related fatalities every day in the U.S. While impaired driving remains a critical issue throughout the nation, some motorists are more likely to be involved in this horrific action than others. Sadly, thousands of motorists continue to drive while impaired, impacting others' safety on the road– leading to catastrophic injuries and death.
Impaired Driving For Motorcyclist
Based on the data from NHTSA, among all motorists, motorcycle drivers had the highest drunk driving fatality rate. Many contributing factors lead to alcohol having a more deadly effect on motorcyclists because it takes more focus, motor skills, and coordination to operate a bike rather than a motor vehicle, and alcohol can significantly affect the ability to do so.
The NHTSA found that in 2019 motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had higher percentages of alcohol impairment than drivers of any other vehicle type. The data revealed the percentages for motorcycle alcohol impairment was 29%, 20% for passenger cars, 19% for small trucks, and 2% for large trucks.
According to the Traffic Safety Facts from the NHTSA, 42 percent of motorcyclists who died in crashes in 2019 were alcohol-impaired.
Riders who operate a motorcycle can be vulnerable and at-risk because they don't have the protection that other motorists have; when alcohol is involved, this increases the risk for a severe accident.
Unfortunately, alcohol is a primary contributor to fatal motorcycle crashes; not only does drinking affect your coordination, motor skills, and judgment, it impairs your braking ability, which can significantly impact your riding skills.
Don't contribute to these horrific statistics; whether you're a motorcycle rider, a driver of a motor vehicle, or any other motorist, it's crucial to drink responsibly and ensure you and the other driver's safety on the road. As a motorcycle rider, you can take safety precautions by following motorcycle riding safety guidelines; this can help prevent a crash and allow both riders' and drivers' protection on the road.
Contact Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers
After an accident, it's essential to seek legal advice from someone you trust. McNabola & Associates, LLC has more than 60 years of collective legal experience, protecting injured victims and advocating for their rights. If you or a loved one were involved in a motorcycle drunk driving-related- accident, we could help. Contact us today at (312) 888-8700, to discuss your case.