Drunk Drivers on the Road with You

Protect yourself from being the victim in a drunk driving accident. Be alert for drunk drivers when you are on the road. Drunk driving statistics show that each person has a 30 percent lifetime chance of being in an alcohol related crash. Drunk drivers often display certain characteristics when on the road:

• Weaving, swerving, drifting, or straddling the center line
• Almost striking an object or vehicle
• Making wide turns
• Driving on the wrong side of the road
• Driving very slowly
• Stopping without cause
• Braking erratically
• Turning abruptly or illegally
• Driving at night without headlights
  

Keep a safe distance from anyone driving erratically or who displays these drunk driving characteristics. If you are in front of a drunk driver, turn right at the nearest intersection and let him or her pass. If the drunk driver is in front of you, stay a safe distance behind. If the drunk driver is coming towards you, slow down and move to the right and stop. Report drunk drivers to law enforcement from a car phone or pay phone.

One of your best defenses against a drunk driver is to wear your safety belt and make sure children are in their child safety seats. And never ride in a car operated by someone who has been drinking - call a cab or ask a friend to drive you home.