SECTION 11. RIDER IMPAIRMENTSSQ
There is increased crash risk associated with riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A rider cannot effectively manage risks if impaired, which can be a loss of physical or mental abilities. It is important to recognize when something affects your ability to ride safely.
ALCOHOL
Alcohol is a drug and a major contributor to crashes. 157It reduces the ability to search for hazards (perception), evaluate factors (thinking), and execute physical actions (coordination and reaction time).
Depressant drugs, such as alcohol, slow down the body’s functions. Alcohol enters the blood quickly and reaches the brain. The effects begin after the first drink and worsen as the drug builds up in the bloodstream. 156Judgment and vision are usually the first abilities to suffer and fade when drinking alcohol. Most people are affected with only one drink in their system.
DRUGS
Drugs can affect the ability to ride safely, and it is difficult to know when the effects are gone. 162Drugs like many over-the-counter and prescription drugs, as well as illegal drugs, have effects that increase risk.They can have depressing effects or stimulating effects.
OTHER FACTORS AFFECTING SAFETY
166Distraction
Fatigue
Emotions
Aging
Riding at the Limit
ALCOHOL
A standard drink contains one-half ounce of pure ethyl alcohol:
1. A 12-ounce beer.
2. A mixed drink with 1.5 ounces of distilled (hard) liquor.
3. A 5-ounce glass of wine.
Drinking and Riding do not mix!
Do not operate heavy machinery after drinking.
DRUGS
Drugs can affect the ability to ride safely, and it is difficult to know when the effects are gone. Drugs like many over-the-counter and prescription drugs, as well as illegal drugs, have effects that increase risk. They can have depressing effects or stimulating effects.
INTERVENTION
Take the keys!
OTHER FACTORS AFFECTING SAFETY - Emotions
169Being overconfident can lead to aggressive riding. You could put yourself in situations that require more skill than you have or more performance than your motorcycle can provide. Having too little confidence can delay decisions. It is important to have the self-awareness and foresight to confidently make decisions that reduce risk so you can take charge of your own safety.
Remember to maintain good risk offset
172Using poor judgment can lead to high-risk riding. The riding skill you have must exceed the risks you take. 173This takes rider character, which means to choose safe and responsible actions instead of risky ones.
To be a safe motorcyclist and be able to look forward to a lifetime of great riding, you have to do the right thing in the moments of choice.