Riding a Motorcycle While Intoxicated
The act of riding a motorcycle is more than just a form of transportation. For many, it truly is a way of life. However, some motorcyclists choose to engage in the negligent behavior of riding while intoxicated. Because they are subject to the same laws as motorists, this is illegal if their BAC is .08 or higher. Unfortunately, this dangerous behavior is alarmingly common in the motorcycle culture.
Motorcycles already supply the rider with an increased amount of risk when compared to cars. Without steel casing that a car provides, no seat belt, and oftentimes, no helmet. Motorcycle fatalities are exceedingly frequent and alcohol only exacerbates that problem. If you or someone you love was injured by the hand on an intoxicated motorcycle rider, call the Chicago personal injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. at 312-466-8200 for a free case evaluation.
The Dangers of Biking while Intoxicated
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides a few reasons as to why motorcyclists drink and ride:
- Beer is present at most motorcycle events and many riders will drive home after a night of heavy drinking. In addition, friends will ride their motorcycles to a predetermined location for a few drinks and ride home. Both events are popular in this particular culture.
- Some motorcyclists believe that they absorb alcohol differently than other people. Factors such as height, weight and tolerance levels make them falsely assume that it takes more for them to become inebriated than a .08 BAC.
- Motorcycling itself is risky and those that enjoy it, enjoy the thrill of death-defying activities. Riding while intoxicated simply seems like an added benefit to an already dangerous situation.
These faulty assumptions provide insight but are dangerous. The act of riding while intoxicated not only puts the biker's life at risk, but other innocent drivers on the road, as well.
Contact Us
If you have been injured by an intoxicated motorcycle driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation in order to pay for damages that occurred. Contact the Chicago personal injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. at 312-466-8200 to learn more.