We all know that being on the same road as a drunk driver
can be very risky and dangerous. Unfortunately, drunk driving happens very
often. According to data compiled by MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), one
out of every 25 drivers is driving illegally intoxicated, and the percentage of
drunk drivers is even higher on nights and weekends. Given the high frequency
of drunk driving, it’s important to know the signs of intoxication on the road.
Here are some signs and tips on what to do if you spot a drunk driver so that
you can help protect yourself and your loved ones.
Stop and Go Driving
Drunk drivers can tend to lose track of where they’re going
and what they’re doing while they’re driving. They may come to a stop randomly
for no reason and then continue driving again.
Uneven or Wide Turns
Drunk drivers often over or underestimate their turns
because they have trouble measuring distance. For example, they will make a
wide turn at a simple corner and then try to adjust quickly mid-turn. This
reaction makes it look like a swerve mid-turn. If you see someone turn like
this, watch for other signs of drunk driving after they turn.
Driving too fast or too slow
An intoxicated driver oftentimes drives more than 10 mph
under the speed limit to try to focus on the road and be extra careful in order
to avoid being detected. Or they may drive extra fast, more than the average
speeder, because their motor skills are impaired and don’t realize what they
are doing.
Straddling Lanes
One of the most common signs of detecting a drunk driver is
when they are straddling two lanes for miles or keep changing into the next
lane without signaling and then jerk back to their own lane. This is commonly
known as swerving and if a driver can’t stay in his or her own lane, steer
clear away from them.
These are just some of the most common signs of drunk
driving. If you think you happen to spot a drunk driver, stay far away from
their vehicle. If you notice someone’s driving is a dangerous hazard on the
road, notify the police but do not try to interfere personally as that can
cause a serious accident.
If
you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor,
Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield,
Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City
Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys
know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your
feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the
compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow
Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join
the conversation by using #MCAA.
