Reducing Your Risk of Getting Hit by a Drunk Driver

Despite efforts by lawmakers and law enforcement agencies across the country, drunk driving accidents continue to occur at an alarming rate in the U.S. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that nearly 30 percent of all car accidents involve alcohol. Unfortunately, there’s no way to control the behavior of other drivers, which means that there’s only so much a person can do to avoid being involved in a drunk driving accident. There are, however, some steps that conscientious drivers can take to help keep them safe from drunk drivers on Florida’s roadways.

Remaining Aware of Your Surroundings 

It’s always important for drivers to keep a close eye on their surroundings when driving. Besides helping drivers avoid being the cause of an accident, doing so can also keep a law-abiding motorist from being struck by a drunk driver. Remember to remain alert and keep an eye out for signs of erratic or reckless driving, like swerving, tailgating, or drifting into other lanes, all of which could indicate that a driver is under the influence. If you see a driver engaging in any of these behaviors, be sure to get out of the way as safely, but as quickly as possible.

Know the Signs of a Drunk Driver 

Knowing what to look for when it comes to drunk driving can play an important role in helping you avoid a potentially dangerous collision. Common signs include:

• Running red lights or stop signs;
• Speeding;
• Driving well below the speed limit;
• Swerving into other lanes or onto the shoulder; and
• Driving without their headlights turned on at night.

If you ever notice a driver engaging in one or more of these behaviors, try to distance yourself as soon as possible. He or she is likely under the influence and so therefore, completely unpredictable. The driver could cross the dividing lines and swerve into oncoming traffic, brake suddenly, causing a rear-end collision, or strike a pedestrian or cyclist with no warning.

Avoid Driving at Night or in Certain Areas 

If you live in a highly populated area where there are a lot of bars and restaurants, you may want to consider trying to stay off the road in the very late or early morning hours, when most drunk drivers are on the road. Weekends tend to be especially dangerous during these hours, so if you do need to drive during these times, be sure to use extra caution.

The Attorneys at Boone & Davis Are Here to Help 

Even the most careful of drivers could end up injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver. If this happens to you, please call the experienced Florida DUI accident lawyers at Boone & Davis for advice. We are committed to holding careless drivers accountable, including drunk drivers who decide to put others at risk by getting behind the wheel while under the influence. Fill out one of our online forms or call our office to get in touch with our legal team today.

Sources:

 nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK217455/