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Motorcycle riding behaviors that may lead to a DUI arrest

On Behalf of | Sep 2, 2022 | criminal defense |

Motorcycle riders must follow the same rules of the road as any other motorist, and that includes adhering to regulations around impaired driving. In some cases, it may even be easier for a police officer to tell that a motorcyclist has been drinking by their riding behavior alone.

South Dakota is a national hotspot for motorcyclists, especially during the annual events at Sturgis. However, this also means that motorcycle riders should be particularly mindful of behaviors that might mark them as being guilty of driving under the influence.

1. Turning problems

Statistics show that sudden turns are among the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. This holds especially true when alcohol impairs a rider’s judgment of distance or renders them unaware of curves in the road.

2. Balance issues

One of the most obvious signs that a person is under the influence is a lack of balance and coordination. This shines through for bikers when they struggle to maintain balance when at a stop or when making erratic movements to correct balance even while in motion.

3. Lane splitting

Lane splitting is the act of moving between rows of traffic while riding a motorcycle, therefore splitting the lane with other vehicles in the process. This act is illegal in South Dakota and police officers might therefore deem it a reckless act indicative of inebriation.

Drinking and driving is a serious crime and one that can be surprisingly common among motorcyclists celebrating at one of the state’s famous motorcycle rallies. You can protect yourself from a potential DUI arrest by avoiding behaviors that might mark you as an irresponsible rider.