According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, roughly a third of all traffic deaths are caused by drunk drivers. That means the chance of encountering a drunk driver is alarmingly high, so knowing what to do when you see a drunk driver could be lifesaving.
Identifying a Drunk Driver
Clues that a driver might be drunk include erratic driving, such as swerving, weaving, and tailgating, quick acceleration or sudden braking, drifting across lanes, slow response time to traffic signals, and driving in the dark without headlights. Drunk driving is also more prevalent late at night and in the early morning hours, especially on weekends and holidays when people have more time to get together and drink socially. If you see a driver that exhibits any of these telltale signs, remain calm and maintain a safe distance from the suspicious vehicle.
Report the Driver
Reporting a drunk driver to the authorities can prevent accidents and keep drivers from causing injury to themselves and others on the road. If you spot a driver who may be driving under the influence, pull over and call 911 to report the driver’s behavior. You will need to note the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate. Try to remember your exact location with a crossroad or mile marker for reference. Under no circumstance should you approach a drunk driver to stop them on your own or try to get their attention while driving. Police or other trained professionals are the only ones who should intervene.
Practice Defensive Driving
You cannot control another driver’s decision to drive while they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but you can practice defensive driving to reduce the risk of being involved in an accident and becoming injured.
It is crucial to always wear your seatbelt because it is often a deciding factor whether you survive a car accident or leave the accident with minimal injuries. Exercise extreme caution when approaching an intersection, many drunk driving accidents occur when the driver runs through a red light or stop sign. Keep a good, safe distance from the cars around you so that you have time to properly react to their erratic behavior. Finally, offer to be the designated driver if you are around people who will be drinking and intoxicated.
Drunk driving accidents can result in serious injuries and even death. Be aware of other drivers on the road and drive defensively to protect yourself, your passengers, and all others on the road.
Monmouth County Car Accident Lawyers at Falcon Law Firm, LLC Advocate for Injured Victims Involved in Drunk Driving Accidents
If you were injured by a drunk driver, you may be eligible to collect damages for injuries or other losses. Our experienced Monmouth County accident lawyers at Falcon Law Firm, LLC will fight for you to get the compensation you deserve and hold the responsible party accountable. Contact us online or call us at 732-454-3306 for a free consultation regarding your case. With locations in Oakhurst, Aberdeen, and Parlin, New Jersey, and Doylestown, Pennsylvania, we represent clients throughout Belmar, Deal, Ocean Township, Point Pleasant, West Long Branch, Sayreville, Middlesex County, and Monmouth County, New Jersey, as well as Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
