It is certainly frightening when you realize you are sharing the road with a drunk driver. If you suspect a driver is inebriated, what should you do?
Drunk Driving Signs
There are various signs that can indicate someone may be driving under the influence. A driver may be under the influence of alcohol if you notice any of the following actions occurring:
- Swerving
- Not obeying traffic signals
- Driving across lanes or in the center of the roadway
- Abrupt turning
- Braking or accelerating erratically
- Inappropriate stopping
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
It is important to note that erratic behavior may indicate an intoxicated driver, but it also may indicate an emergency, such as a driver having a heart attack. If someone is driving dangerously, it is crucial to report the driver.
What to Do When Recognizing a Drunk Driver
If you suspect that another driver is drunk, report the situation to the police immediately by calling 911. Get your car safely out of the way before calling. Try to get the license plate number of the vehicle and give a description of the color, make, and model of the car. If you have dash cam, let it take a photo or video. If there is another occupant in your car, have them take a picture or video of the drunk driver. Let the dispatcher know where the person is driving, make certain to include the town and street name.
You should also let the dispatcher know why you think the driver is impaired. Describe the situation in as much detail as possible.
What Not to Do with a Drunk Driver
Reporting a drunk driver is vital, but there are also actions you should not do while on the road with the driver. If you suspect a driver is intoxicated, do not drive alongside the drunk driver’s vehicle. This person is already distracted and could easily hit your vehicle or crash if someone pulls up alongside their car. Do not sound your horn to gain the driver’s attention for the same reason. Most importantly, do not try to drive in front of the drunk driver’s car. This will endanger you and all other drivers on the road.
Keep Yourself Safe
While you must report the incident immediately, you must also keep yourself safe. Make sure your car is a good distance away from the drunk driver’s vehicle. Once you have reported the situation to law enforcement, get out of the way. Take an alternative route, or pull over and wait a while until the driver is no longer in your vicinity.
Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Support Those Injured by Negligent Drunk Drivers
If you were injured in an accident involving a drunk driver, you need the services of an experienced attorney. Our skilled Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. will fight intensely for your rights and help you obtain the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 610-565-3701. With offices located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.