Regardless of safety campaigns and awareness programs against drunk driving, impaired drivers continue to cause car accidents in Florida and elsewhere. Learning how to recognize drunk drivers may be the best way to stay safe. However, both drugs and fatigue have the same effect as alcohol impairment.
Behaviors that might raise red flags
Look out for the following signs of impaired driving:
- Erratic braking
- Tailgating
- Swerving, weaving and drifting
- Wrong side driving
- Driving in the middle of the road
- Driving without headlights after dark
- Slowing down or accelerating too quickly
- Delayed reaction to traffic signals
- Making excessively wide turns
- Driving unusually slow
Along with these telltale signs of impairment, some drivers can be seen drinking while driving, and some may have their faces right up to the windshield because they are unable to see the roadway. Drivers who spot any of these signs of impairment should report it to 911. It might prevent others who are less alert to be victims of drunk driving accidents. Although impaired driving is more prevalent during the holidays, the risk exists throughout the year.
Victims of car accidents caused by drunk drivers will likely have grounds to pursue financial relief through the Florida civil justice system. The plaintiff will have to prove negligence on the part of the other driver. However, if police arrested that driver for impaired driving, it could benefit the plaintiff’s case. Retaining the services of an experienced Florida car accident attorney can simplify the legal proceedings. A successfully presented claim might lead to a monetary judgment to cover documented claims for financial and other damages.
