Drunk driving is a persistent danger in the United States, causing several preventable accidents every year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving has led to 13,524 deaths in 2022, which is 13% of overall driving fatalities. Beyond the tragic deaths, drunk driving is also the reason for the economic and emotional loss of several families and communities.
Despite the availability of alternative options, such as rideshares and appointing designated drivers, this problem still needs attention. The government could impose stricter enforcement and checkups and better public education on the subject.
If a person is involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, they must consult an experienced drunk driving lawyer as soon as possible. As the lawyer is experienced in the field, they can help tackle the case’s legal aspects and ensure that the victim receives fair compensation.
What is a DUI?
Driving under the Influence (DUI) is when a driver has consumed any substance that can impair their judgment, such as alcohol, recreational, or prescription drugs. Individuals who have consumed such substances are recommended not to drive, as it is a criminal offense that can lead to up to a year of imprisonment.
What is BAC?
When a person consumes alcohol, the stomach and small intestine absorb the alcohol and pass it into the blood, which is stored there until the liver flushes it out. The percentage of the amount of alcohol present in a person’s blood is known as Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).
Signs that a Driver is Drunk
If a driver is drunk, not only do they pose a threat to themselves but also other road users around them. If you notice any of the following signs of drunk driving, then it is advisablethat you slow down and halt at the nearest location and contact 911.
Speeding Problems
If a driver is drunk, they will often have trouble controlling the speed of the vehicle. You can identify this if the driver is
• Speeding
• Driving very slowly
• Jerky or rapidly fluctuating speed
Braking Problems
As a drunk driver cannot maintain the car’s speed, bringing their vehicle to a proper halt would be difficult. For example, they might:
• Stop at an odd angle
• Hit the brakes suddenly
• Make jerky halts
Impaired Judgement
Excess consumption of alcohol is bound to impair one’s judgment, causing slow and uncalculated reactions. A drunk driver might
• Taking illegal U-turns
• Drive off the road
• Drive in the emergency lane
Lane Etiquette
As they cannot make timely judgments and control the speed of their vehicle, they are likely to violate basic lane etiquette. They may
• Drive on the wrong side of the road
• Make wide U-turns
• Recklessly weave through traffic
Lack of Awareness
Drunk drivers will have difficulty processing information properly. They may even lack the reflexes to react to anything, so they are likely to do the following:
• Drive without switching on the headlights
• Neglect traffic signals
• Halt or slow down for no reason
What to do if a drunk driver hits you?
If you have been involved in any car accident, it is important that you take certain actions as soon as possible. When it comes to a drunk driver, there are high chances that the driver also might be in a haze. Take the following steps right after being involved in or witnessing an accident:
• Look for injuries
• Stay at the scene of the accident
• Call emergency services
• Document the accident
• Talk to witnesses
• Talk to the police
• Do not apologize
• Exchange information with the other drivers
• Contact a car accident attorney