By Laurie Montoya
Motorcycles offer freedom, power, and a connection to the road that few other vehicles can match. But when alcohol enters the picture, that same freedom can quickly become fatal. Despite years of awareness efforts, motorcycle fatalities linked to alcohol impairment remain a persistent and deadly problem nationwide. States that offer year-round riding are experiencing a higher rate of motorcycle and alcohol related fatalities.
According to recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 28% of all motorcyclist fatalities in 2023 involved riders who were legally intoxicated, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. That figure exceeds the rate for passenger car drivers (25%) and light-truck drivers (21%).
See BikerChat
Night Rides, Higher Stakes
“It’s a dangerous combination,” says traffic safety advocate Maria Thompson. “You’ve got lower visibility, tired drivers, and impaired reflexes—all sharing the same roads.”
The danger amplifies after sunset. Statistics show that while 16% of motorcyclist deaths during the day involve alcohol, that number soars to 44% at night. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and an increased likelihood of alcohol consumption all contribute to this nighttime risk spike.
Helmet Use and Impaired Judgment
A troubling trend often accompanies drinking and riding: not wearing helmets. In 2023, 58% of drunk motorcyclists who died in crashes were not wearing a helmet, compared to 32% of sober riders. Experts say that impaired riders are more likely to make poor decisions, like skipping protective gear or speeding.
“Alcohol doesn’t just affect your motor skills—it changes your sense of risk,” explains Thompson. “You start thinking you’re invincible when you’re anything but.”
State Spotlight: Florida, Colorado, and Nevada
Florida, a state with year-round riding weather, continues to grapple with high rates of alcohol-related motorcycle fatalities. Recent reports indicate that about 28% of fatal motorcycle crashes in Florida involve alcohol or drug impairment.
Colorado, however, has seen signs of improvement. In 2023, the Colorado State Patrol reported a 36% drop in impaired motorcycle fatalities compared to the year before—thanks to stronger enforcement and targeted safety campaigns.
As of the latest available data, specific statistics detailing the percentage of motorcycle fatalities involving alcohol in Las Vegas are not readily accessible. However, statewide data for Nevada provides some insight into the issue.
According to a report in 2022, 27.33% of drivers involved in fatal motorcycle crashes in Nevada were under the influence of alcohol. This indicates that over a quarter of such fatalities statewide involved alcohol impairment.
While this data encompasses the entire state, it’s important to note that Clark County, which includes Las Vegas, reported the highest number of fatal motorcycle crashes in Nevada. This suggests that the issue of alcohol-related motorcycle fatalities is particularly significant in the Las Vegas area.
The Ride Sober Message
Experts agree that preventing these tragedies comes down to one key message: plan ahead.
- Don’t drink and ride.
- Use a rideshare or arrange a sober rider.
- Speak up if you see a friend trying to ride impaired.
- Always wear your helmet—even for short trips.
“Motorcyclists have a strong sense of community,” says Thompson. “It’s time we extend that same protective instinct to stopping impaired riding. A real friend doesn’t let a buddy ride drunk.” BikerDown Foundation did a segment on the 99% Radio Network this past week and it was a great conversation. To watch the video click here.
As warmer months invite more motorcycles back on the roads, the call is simple but serious: Ride sober. Ride smart. Ride alive.
