You know that drunk drivers are dangerous drivers, but how do you recognize an impaired driver in the first place. Drunk drivers are responsible for some of the most dangerous accidents on our roadways, and knowing how to recognize such drivers may help you mitigate the associated danger
Drunk Drivers
Drivers who choose to imbibe in alcohol before getting behind the wheel endanger everyone with whom they share the road. The fact is, however, that a driver who is willing to engage in this kind of risky behavior is also more likely to engage in other dangerous driving behaviors, such as interacting with his or her smartphone while behind the wheel.
Spotting Drunk Drivers on the Road
Remaining aware of the traffic all around you is the best way to stay safe out there, and this includes being on the lookout for impaired drivers. While there are some common signs that a driver may be impaired, it is important to trust your instincts and, if you think a driver may present a danger, steer clear. The signs that are closely associated with drunk driving include:
- Drivers who swerve in and out of traffic
- Drivers who fail to turn on their headlights as appropriate
- Drivers who tailgate
- Drivers who brake erratically and/or often
- Drivers who make illegal turns
- Drivers who fail to stop for stoplights or signs (or who remained stopped at stoplights or signs)
- Drivers who stop for green lights
- Drivers who speed excessively or who drive too slowly
- Drivers who make illegal turns
- Drivers who travel in the wrong direction on the road
Again, if a driver strikes you as maneuvering dangerously, proceed with extreme caution.
How Best to Respond to a Drunk Driver
If you share the road with a driver whom you suspect of being drunk, there are some important steps that you should take. These include:
- Leave as much space between your vehicle and the drunk driver’s vehicle as you possibly can
- Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so
- Provide 911 with as much information about the vehicle in question and your current location as possible
- Depending upon the driving situation, either exit the roadway or remain a safe distance behind the impaired driver
Impaired drivers are so unpredictable and inherently dangerous that you should never attempt to pass when you identify such a driver in front of you. If the drunk driver in question is behind you, your safest option is probably exiting the roadway when it is safe to do so.
Do Not Delay Consulting with an Experienced Attorney
If you have been injured by another driver's negligence, Brett Pritchard is a dedicated personal injury attorney who is committed to skillfully advocating on behalf of your rights and for the compensation to which you are entitled. We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact or call us at 254-501-4040 for more information today.