Since you can’t control the actions of others, though, It’s important that you know how to recognize a drunk driver out on the road and what steps you should take to keep yourself safe. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on what you should do if you encounter a drunk driver out on the road in Alabama.
Know the Signs of a Drunk Driver
- Driving 10 or more mph below the speed limit
- Drifting in and out of traffic
- Driving over lane markers
- Driving off the edge of the road
- Not turning on headlights when appropriate
- Tailgating
- Almost colliding with obstacles and other vehicles
- Using turn signals that don’t match actions
- Weaving across the road
- Quick changes of speed
- Illegal or abrupt turns
- Slow responses to traffic signals
- Consistent swerving
When a driver is performing a combination of these signs, there’s a very strong chance that he or she is driving under the influence.
What To Do If You See a Drunk Driver
Intoxicated drivers are unsafe by definition. They don’t have enough control of themselves to make smart decisions. That means you, as the sober driver, should do everything you can to prioritize the safety of yourself and those around you. This includes staying as far away from the vehicle as possible, not trying to pass it, and watching out for any sudden changes in the driver’s behavior so that you can react as quickly and as safely as possible.
You should do your best to maintain a safe distance between you and the drunk driver. If the driver changes their course, you may be the one caught in a car accident. It’s best to stay safely behind them so that you know where the vehicle is.
If you do get the vehicle’s information, you should pull over and call 911. Give the dispatcher any information you were able to gather, describe the driver’s behavior, and share with them the vehicle’s locations. With all these details, the police can take action, and your next best step is to continue to your destination.
What Not To Do If You See a Drunk Driver
If you encounter a drunk driver out on the road, it can be scary and frustrating, but you should never attempt to pull the driver over yourself. He or she may be armed or dangerous in some other way. It is also possible that the driver is not drunk, so it’s best to let the police intervene to determine whether or not the driver is actually intoxicated. So, once you have notified the police and given them all the information you’ve gathered, your job is done.
The Long Brothers Are Here to Help
Drunk drivers are easily the leading cause of fatal car accidents. When you recognize the signs of drunk driving, take the necessary steps to inform the authorities so that they can do their job to keep the roads safe.
If you’ve been in an accident with a drunk driver, our car accident attorneys can help you navigate your best next steps to get the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with our team by filling out our online form or giving us a call at 251-432-2277 to get started on your free case review.