The dangers of drunk driving are profound and well-documented. Alcohol impairment not only reduces a driver’s ability to make quick decisions but also significantly hampers their motor skills, heightening the risk of accidents.
For motorcyclists, who already occupy a more vulnerable position on the road, the risks escalate dramatically due to their need for precise balance and quick reflexes, which are severely compromised by alcohol. Drinking and riding a motorcycle is seriously dangerous, and the consequences can be irreversible.
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver or involved in a collision caused by alcohol impairment, a Wisconsin drunk driving accident attorney can provide critical support in pursuing justice and compensation.
Alcohol-Related Motorcycle Crashes in the United States
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021 alone, 5,932 motorcyclists lost their lives in road accidents. This amounts to 14% of all traffic fatalities in the United States. Of these motorcyclists, 29% were under the influence of alcohol—amounting to almost 1 out of 3 motorcycle deaths.Â
These numbers underscore a harsh reality: alcohol use is a significant contributor to fatal motorcycle collisions. From impaired judgment to slower reaction times, drunk motorcyclists are a danger to themselves and all road users.
How Alcohol Use Can Affect Your Ability to Operate a Motorcycle
Operating a motorcycle demands high levels of balance, coordination, and judgment—faculties severely impaired by alcohol consumption. Alcohol affects cognitive functions and physical coordination, making it challenging to execute the precise maneuvers required for safe motorcycling.Â
People who are under the influence of alcohol can also be overconfident, tend to take unnecessary risks, and have a reduced ability to react to sudden hazards. Moreover, alcohol impairs vision and delays reaction times, making it difficult for motorcyclists to respond effectively to road conditions, traffic signals, and the actions of other road users.Â
How Alcohol Use Can Impact Motorcycle Accidents
Accidents involving alcohol can have severe, devastating consequences. Victims often suffer from extensive physical injuries, which can lead to long-term disabilities or even fatalities. Psychological trauma, emotional distress, and mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are also common, greatly affecting quality of life.
In addition to the personal toll, these accidents often result in substantial economic burdens, including medical bills, loss of income, and property damage. It can be difficult for victims to recover from the impact of a drunk driving accident, whether it involves an impaired motor vehicle driver or motorcyclist.
What to Do If You Are Hit by a Drunk Driver or Motorcyclist
Alcohol impairment not only endangers the drunk person but also poses a significant threat to others on the road. Pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicle operators can suffer serious sometimes fatal injuries due to the actions of just one individual. If you were hit by a drunk driver or motorcyclist, it is crucial to remain calm and take the following steps:
- Contact the Police: Immediately call the police to report the accident. They will document the scene and perform necessary sobriety tests on the suspect.
- Go to the Hospital: Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries are not immediately apparent, and a medical record will be important for future legal action.
- Collect Evidence: If possible, take photographs of the scene, your injuries, and any damages. Gather details such as the license plate number, vehicle description, and the driver’s information.
After seeking medical care, seek legal assistance as soon as possible. A Wisconsin drunk driving accident lawyer can help you navigate the aftermath of the collision and fight for the compensation that you deserve. Contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney to plan your path to justice and initiate your claim.