Over the past ten years, alcohol-related fatalities for passenger car operators have fallen significantly; similar reductions have not occurred for motorcycle operators. This study assessed motorcyclists' attitudes and beliefs regarding drinking and riding to develop appropriate public information materials.
Ten focus groups were conducted in sites selected for geographic location, registered motorcycles, and alcohol involvement in motorcycle fatalities. Seventy men and 15 women motorcyclists aged 21-38 years who admitted to riding after drinking participated in the research. Sixteen percent admitted to being arrested for riding under the influence.
Qualitative analysis methods found the following:
* Drinking was a routine part of motorcycling events and beer was the drink of choice; most participants believed that alcohol is not a significant cause of crashes.
* Many believed their own ability to handle alcohol was far above average and underestimated the number of drinks needed to reach an illegal blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
* Participants believed that BAC levels are set much too low and that they would not be impaired at a 0.08 or 0.10 BAC.
* Threat of injury or death was not an effective motivator for avoiding drinking and riding. Damaging or losing a motorcycle appeared more effective.
* Most recalled seeing or hearing advertisements about drinking and driving but felt these messages did not apply to motorcyclists.
Results were used to develop materials focused on personal responsibility and the effects of motorcyclists' actions on others, i.e., family members. However, results also suggest a need for more intensive prevention, education, and enforcement strategies.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, participants will be able to identify some characteristics associated with drinking and riding; themes for possible public information campaigns; and strategies for including impaired motorcyclists in existing impaired driving programs
Keywords: Motor Vehicles, Injury Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.