Identifying and stopping drunk or impaired drivers can save lives (innocent pedestrians as well as offenders). As a safe driver, you should know how to spot a driver under the influence and what to do.
Top signs of drunk driving:
- Swerving
- Accelerating and decelerating for no reason
- Overuse of their breaks
- Turning wide
- Changing lanes erratically
What to do:
- Give them space
- Pull over to let them pass
- Call 911 with a description of the car and their location
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol related crashes cost more than $37 billion annually. About 1/3 of all Americans are involved in an alcohol-related auto accident at some point in their lives. This is a very good reason to keep alert while driving and be ready to react if you see signs of a drunk driver.
If out driving at night, be alert. If you’re going out and plan to drink, please make sure that someone in your group is the designated driver. If you don’t have a designated driver, take a cab. Even if you think you are okay to drive—take a cab anyway. It’s always the best choice.