December 2, 2023 Car Accidents,Safety Tips
Driving comes with its own sets of challenges and risks, and drunk drivers are some of the most dangerous. These motorists get behind the wheel while intoxicated by alcohol, which impairs their concentration, motor skills, judgment, and many of the other skills needed to drive safely.
Drunk driving poses a significant danger to everyone on the road, making it crucial to act quickly in these situations. If you see a drunk driver on the road in Nevada, it is important to remain calm, stay away from the driver, and call 911 as soon as possible.
Identifying a drunk driver can be the first step in preventing a potential tragedy. Common indicators include erratic driving behaviors such as weaving between lanes, abrupt or illegal turns, inconsistent speeds, and failure to obey traffic signals. Nighttime especially amplifies these risks, as visibility is reduced and the likelihood of encountering impaired drivers increases. If you observe any of these warning signs, it’s essential to stay vigilant and prepare to take the next steps.
Once you suspect someone is driving under the influence, the safest and most effective course of action is to contact 911. Provide the dispatcher with as much information as possible, including the location, direction of travel, vehicle description, and any observed erratic behaviors. This information is crucial for law enforcement to respond and apprehend the driver before a serious accident occurs.
Maintain a safe distance from the suspected drunk driver, and do not attempt to pass or get too close to their vehicle. The unpredictable nature of an impaired driver’s actions means that the risk of an accident increases significantly if you are too close. Staying at a safe distance also allows you to avoid triggering a road rage incident; alcohol impairs judgment and can amplify violent behaviors, so it is important to stay safe.
While keeping your distance, try to memorize details about the vehicle and the driver. Take note of the make, model, color, and license plate number of the car. If you can see any distinctive features of the driver or notice specific behaviors, these details can be helpful to law enforcement later on.
It is crucial to remember that you should never attempt to stop or interact with a suspected drunk driver. Doing so can put you in direct danger and potentially escalate the situation. Leave these interactions to trained law enforcement professionals and focus on staying out of harm’s way.
Despite these precautions, serious accidents with drunk drivers can and do occur. If you were involved in a collision caused by an impaired driver, it is important to know that you have the right to pursue legal action. Not only can you press criminal charges against the driver, but you can also file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit for the damages that you have suffered.
In these situations, a Las Vegas car accident attorney can guide you through the complexities of the legal system and ensure your rights are protected. Your attorney can help you hold the drunk driver accountable and secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more. After your accident, contact a lawyer to discuss your next steps and initiate your claim.
