In Philadelphia and Beyond: Watch Out For Drunk Drivers

If you’re a responsible driver, you’ll never get behind the wheel of a car after having too much to drink. But just because you’re responsible, doesn’t mean that others are as well. During the holiday season especially, it’s important to be a good defensive driver. Being on the lookout for impaired drivers, and knowing how to spot them, can save your life. Common signs of drunk driving include:

• Straddling the center of the road
• Weaving or zigzagging across the road
• Turning with a wide radius
• Almost striking another vehicle, or object
• Abruptly swerving or turning
• Driving on the wrong side of the road
• Disregarding the rules of the road, such as stop signs and lights
• Making illegal turns
• Erratic braking, or stopping in inappropriate areas
• Driving significantly below the speed limit
• Slow response to traffic signals
• Inconsistent signaling

If you spot a potentially drunk driver, it’s important you take immediate steps to preserve your safety, as well as the safety of others on the road. First of all, if the driver is near you or is in any way threatening your safety, increase the distance between your vehicles by pulling over. If the car is heading straight toward you and a collision seems imminent, pull over to the right, honk your horn, and flash your lights. Don’t attempt to stop the vehicle, follow the vehicle, or detain the driver if they stop. Once you are in a safe spot and out of danger, use your cell phone to contact the authorities immediately. Dial the local police station, or 911. Give the exact location of the vehicle, the direction it is traveling in, and a full description of the vehicle. Despite taking every safety precaution, accidents happen. If you or someone you love has recently been injured in an automobile accident, and you believe a drunk driver is responsible, contact a Philadelphia injury attorney for more information.