Every day, drivers encounter a variety of dangerous situations on the road. While ice and heavy traffic are familiar hazards, every now and then particularly frightening situations can arise.
One troubling scenario a driver might find themselves in is suspecting another driver on the road of drunk driving. In fact, every two minutes, someone is injured in a drunk driving crash. Though not always preventable, knowing the signs of a drunk driver and knowing how to report one can help save lives.
There are several warning signs drivers can look for that could indicate drunk driving and that warrant a report, including:
- Swerving or uncontrolled turns
- Driving unusually slow
- Erratic breaking and acceleration
- Straddling lines or crossing into the wrong lane
- Inappropriate stopping
- Repeatedly failing to obey traffic signals
If you notice any of the above signs or other dangerous driving behaviors that make you suspect a driver is intoxicated, use the following steps to make a report:
- Keep your Distance (and Your Cool)
Protecting your own safety is most important when encountering a drunk driver. Keep a good distance ahead or behind a car that is driving erratically, and consider warning other drivers with your hazard lights or by flicking your headlights until you can get away from the situation. Try not to get too nervous so that you don’t make dangerous driving decisions yourself. - Make Quick Observations
In order to report a drunk driver, you’ll need a few key pieces of information to give the 911 dispatcher. Notice the color, make, and model of the vehicle, and the license plate number if you are able. Notice exactly how the driver is behaving, especially if they have come close to damaging other people or property. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, take note of the driver’s specific location, including street names, mile markers, and which direction the driver is heading. - Pull Over and Call 911
After making your observations, pull over before calling the police. Stopping your car will prevent you from driving while distracted, and put distance between you and the dangerous vehicle. Explain the situation calmly and clearly to the dispatcher, and answer questions concisely. Don’t try to follow the vehicle and let the police do their job. - If A Crash Occurs
Pull over and turn on your hazard lights. Assess the situation before approaching, and call 911 immediately if you suspect any injuries. If you think it is safe to approach, get closer. Try not to move injured people unless their life depends on it, since moving a hurt person can sometimes worsen their injuries. Instead, offer calming words and redirect traffic until emergency help arrives.
Encountering a possibly drunk driver on the road is a scary and dangerous situation. And considering the U.S. is home to almost 218 million licensed drivers, it’s important to know how to keep yourself (and others) safe on the road. Be smart, make observations, and seek emergency help quickly to help prevent accidents and devastating injuries. If you suspect a driver may be intoxicated, it’s crucial to report the situation and consider contacting dui lawyers for legal guidance and support. A dui defense attorney will help defend the rights of those who are facing dui charges. Their specialization and experience practicing as a dui lawyer will increase your chances of achieving a positive outcome over a non-specialized attorney.
