What happens when friends let friends ride drunk?
You think that an occasional beer—or two—before a ride isn't a problem? You might want to reconsider. Here are some very eye opening facts:
• 40% of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve riders who are under the influence, And only about one-third of those were considered legally intoxicated. The rest, though below the “legal limit,” had consumed enough alcohol to diminish their skills and impair their judgment – which ended up costing them their lives.
• Close to 50% of all motorcycle riders who die in single motorcycles crashes are intoxicated
• Motorcycle rider in fatal crashes have the highest intoxication rate of any other type of driver
Contrary to popular belief, coffee or other caffeine will not sober you up when you are intoxicated: neither will fresh air or splashing cold water on your face. They may be a momemtary fix, but the only thing certain to rid your system of alcohol is time.
It makes you think… your odds are not good when it comes to drinking while on a ride.
FACT:
Motorcyclist fatalities have been steadily rising since 1997, when 2116 riders expired. In '03, the number was a sobering 3592. That's more people than were killed on 9/11.
The only sure way to keep alcohol from affecting your riding ability is: If you’re riding, don’t drink – period. Don’t risk your own and others’ safety by putting yourself in a situation where you may lose control of your better judgment...and your motorcycle.
For more information, check out these links...
The Drunk Test
Being in Shape to Ride
Drunk on a Motorcycle
