Whether you’re driving home from a late night shift or going to an evening movie, the last thing you expect is to be injured in a collision with a motorcycle. However, if you have reason to believe the motorcyclist is under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident, it’s critical to understand what your legal options during this matter are. The following blog explores the effects of alcohol on a motorist’s ability to operate a vehicle and why it’s in your best interest to connect with motor vehicle accident attorneys to explore your legal rights during these times.
How does alcohol impact the brain?
Though legal for anyone over the age of 21, it’s important to understand that alcohol is a substance that impacts the brain. As such, it influences how someone makes decisions, their motor skills, and other aspects of their life they may usually not think twice about.
For example, one of the most common impacts of alcohol is that it impairs judgment. As a result, those under the influence are more likely to act more outgoing or out of character. This includes making risky and unsafe decisions.
Another common impact of alcohol is that it can inhibit your motor skills. It’s not uncommon for those who have consumed alcohol to experience issues with their balance and coordination
Does this make a motorcycle accident more likely?
When you consider the impacts that alcohol can have on your brain, it’s easy to see how someone operating a motorcycle while under the influence is more likely to be involved in an accident.
For example, because your judgment is impaired, someone may make more dangerous or unsafe decisions, like trying to beat a car to a light or trying to lane split as another driver is switching lanes.
Additionally, as alcohol can impact the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle, they are much more likely to lose control, causing a collision. On a similar note, the reaction time of those under the influence is often reduced, meaning an intoxicated biker may be unable to stop for hazards in the road, other drivers, or at stop signs, leading to a collision.
What should I do if I’m hurt by a drunk motorist?
If you are hit by a motorcyclist whom you believe is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself during these matters. You should call emergency services to report the accident and request a police and medical presence at the scene. Inform the operator that the driver appears intoxicated and follow their instructions.
After you leave the scene and receive medical treatment for the injuries you have sustained, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney to explore your legal options. If the motorcyclist was determined to be under the influence, you can seek compensation for the injuries you endured as a result of their negligence. However, you should not try to navigate this process alone. Instead, the dedicated attorneys at Friedman Schuman Layser can help you through these times. Connect with us today to learn more.
