While you should focus on the road, you need to be alert and aware of the actions of other road users. A road user can make a mistake that can lead to an accident. And one of those road users is a drunk driver. If you can spot a drunk driver, you can anticipate potential hazards and avoid them.
Here is how you can recognize a drunk driver on the road:
Swerving
Coordinating motor skills is challenging when someone is impaired. A drunk driver can have a difficult time staying in a straight line. Thus, they will keep drifting out of their lane and swerving back.
A drunk driver may also swerve because they are falling asleep behind the wheel. So, they will drift out of their lane when they sleep and try to get back when they suddenly wake up.
If you notice a driver around you is moving in a “weaving” motion, they may be drunk.
Quick acceleration and deceleration
Since alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, a drunk driver may be unable to control their vehicle’s speed. It may be challenging for them to smoothly control their gas and brake pedals – they may drive too slowly, accelerate too quickly or brake too hard.
It’s also not uncommon for drunk drivers to drive slowly to avoid bringing attention to themselves. But then, they may feel like they are moving too slowly. Therefore, they will suddenly accelerate to overcompensate. A drunk driver can do this constantly.
Tailgating
A drunk driver may have a poor perception of distance. They may find it difficult to gauge the safe following distance. Thus, they may tailgate you, not knowing how close they are to you.
Drunk driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road. If a drunk driver injures you, learn more about your case to determine how to protect your rights.