Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 10,142 fatalities caused by drunk driving in 2019. It is essential to be able to identify drunk drivers on the highway to avoid accidents. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to recognize drunk drivers and what to do if you encounter one. If you have been in a car accident in Los Angeles caused by a drunk driver, you should contact a car accident lawyer Los Angeles for legal assistance.

Look for Swerving or Erratic Driving

Drunk drivers have a hard time controlling their vehicle, so one of the most noticeable signs of a drunk driver is swerving or erratic driving. If you notice a car that is swerving in and out of lanes or driving erratically, you should keep a safe distance from that car. Be sure to stay in your lane and avoid passing the vehicle.

Watch for Sudden Braking or Acceleration

Another sign of a drunk driver is sudden braking or acceleration. Drunk drivers may brake suddenly or accelerate abruptly for no apparent reason. If you see a car doing this, it's best to keep your distance and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.

Look for Slow or Inconsistent Driving

Drunk drivers may also drive slower than the speed limit or inconsistently, changing their speed frequently. If you notice a car driving too slowly or varying its speed, it's best to stay away from that car. You should also avoid passing the vehicle.

Pay Attention to the Driver's Behavior

If you can see the driver of a car, pay attention to their behavior. Drunk drivers may have difficulty maintaining eye contact or keeping their head up. They may also be fidgety or appear nervous. If you see a driver who exhibits these behaviors, stay away from that car.

Watch for Signs of Impairment

There are several signs of impairment that you can look for to identify a drunk driver. These include:

• Slurred speech
• Bloodshot or glassy eyes
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Inability to follow traffic signals or signs
• Driving without headlights at night
• Driving on the wrong side of the road

If you notice any of these signs, stay away from the car and call the police to report the driver.

What to Do if You Encounter a Drunk Driver

If you encounter a drunk driver on the highway, there are several things you can do to avoid an accident:

• Keep a safe distance from the car
• Avoid passing the vehicle
• Pull over to the side of the road and let the car pass
• Call the police to report the driver

If you are involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. You should also contact a car accident lawyer Los Angeles for legal assistance. A car accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

Conclusion

Identifying drunk drivers on the highway is crucial for preventing car accidents. Look for signs of swerving or erratic driving, sudden braking or acceleration, slow or inconsistent driving, and signs of impairment. If you encounter a drunk driver, keep a safe distance, avoid passing the vehicle, pull over to the side of the road, and call the police. If you have been in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Los Angeles, contact a car accident lawyer Los Angeles for legal assistance.

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