Road safety is crucial. Unfortunately, a negligent driver may fail to keep you safe, and a good example is a drunk driver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 13,384 people died in alcohol-related accidents in 2021. This shows that many drivers are getting behind the wheel when impaired despite knowing its consequences.
So, can you spot a drunk driver and avoid them? A few signs can help you identify one. They include:
Quick acceleration and deceleration
A drunk driver may believe everyone notices they are impaired. As a result, they may overcompensate to prove they are not. They will drive slowly to reduce attention toward them, but when they believe they are too slow, they will speed. Thus, they will engage in sudden acceleration and deceleration, which ironically gives them the attention they are working hard to avoid.
Weaving
Due to poor muscle and eye coordination, it can be difficult for a drunk driver to stay in their lane. You will notice them weaving. In such an instance, you should increase the safe following distance and avoid overtaking unless you have adequate space to do so.
Tailgating
A driver may tailgate you because they are in a hurry. However, they may also be drunk. Drunk drivers may have a difficult time keeping a safe following distance due to impaired judgment. And when you try to create space between your vehicle and theirs, they may increase their speed to catch up with you, which can be annoying. Nonetheless, you should remain calm, focusing on the road, and when you get a chance, let them pass.
If you are injured by a drunk driver, you should consider your options to get the compensation you deserve.
