Although we cannot prevent a stranger from getting behind the wheel after drinking, we can arm ourselves with information to help keep us safe against a drunk driving accident. There’s no other way to protect ourselves than to know the signs of a drunk driver, and know what to do once we’ve spotted one. Listed below are some things to look out for on the road; catching these signs early could prevent an innocent victim from getting into a drunk driving accident.
- Taking wide turns
- Physically appearing to be drunk (fixation of eyes, trying to wake themselves up, actually drinking while driving, etc)
- Swerving/zigzagging and abruptly correcting their course
- Leaving a turn signal on, or not signaling at all
- Constant, unnecessary braking
- Driving far below speed limit (10 to 15mph)
Now that we’ve covered what you need to look out for in a drunk driver, what do you do when you actually spot one? Listed below are some actions you can take in order to remove yourself and other safe drivers from this risky situation. With these tips, you could prevent a wrongful death.
- Keep a distance from the drunk driver, and be at the ready to take abrupt, evasive action
- If you are on course for a head on collision, flash your brights and honk your horn to warn the drunk driver
- Avoid late night driving
- Avoid driving on ‘drinking holidays’ such as the 4th of July, Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, and Super Bowl Sunday
- Contact the authorities immediately to report the suspected drunk driver; and once called, give as much information as possible (e.g., exact location, make, model, license plate, color, etc.)
At Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP, we understand that we live in an unpredictable world, and all we can do is prepare ourselves for what comes our way. If the unthinkable happens, all the preparation in the world may not be enough. If you or a loved one is a victim of a drunk driving accident, contact our Dallas auto accident lawyers immediately to get you on the road to normalcy and rehabilitation.
