Despite all the information about the dangers and the laws against it, drunk driving is still a major problem in this country.
In 2022, 462 people in North Carolina alone lost their lives due to drunk driving accidents. With that in mind, drivers need to be particularly cautious and alert.
Some common signs of a drunk driver
Good defensive driving means keeping your eyes open for the following signs:
- Erratic speeds: Keep an eye out for vehicles that are speeding up and slowing down unpredictably.
- Sudden lane changes: Drunk drivers may veer across lanes without signaling or swerve between lanes without warning.
- Inconsistent braking: Impaired drivers might brake suddenly or too late, indicating a lack of focus or impaired reaction times.
- Weaving or drifting: If you notice a vehicle drifting onto the shoulder, into oncoming traffic or crossing the yellow line, there’s a strong possibility the driver is impaired.
- Tailgating or following closely: Drunk drivers can struggle to judge distances, leading to unsafe following distances and an increased risk of rear-end collisions.
- Delayed responses: Impaired drivers often react slowly to traffic signals, stop signs and other vehicles, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
To avoid potential accidents involving drunk drivers, keep a safe distance from any vehicle if the driver is displaying signs of impairment. Increase your following distance so that you have enough time to react if the driver’s actions become unpredictable – and avoid confrontation. As soon as it’s safe, pull over and call the police to report your concerns.
Even the most careful driver can, unfortunately, end up in a wreck with an impaired driver. If that happens to you or your loved one, learning more about your right to hold the other party accountable for their actions can help.
