Protecting Yourself Against Drunk Drivers

According to reports from the NHTSA, nearly 29 people in the United States lose their life in an alcohol-impaired automobile accident each day. Not only do these crashes contribute to billions of dollars in damage each year, but the loss is a devastating heartbreak that could have been avoided. While you can control whether or not you personally have a cocktail before driving, it may seem impossible to protect yourself against other drivers who have not been as responsible. However, there are things you can do to help you and your precious cargo stay safe on Georgia roads and avoid a car accident caused by drunk driving.

Know the Signs of an Impaired Driver

While drunk driving can be easy to spot in some cases, there are also some less obvious signs that can indicate an impaired driver. Educate yourself on the following warning signs so that you know when to pull over and report the driver to authorities:

• Swerving
• Driving in middle of the road
• Going the wrong direction
• Taking large turns
• Erratic breaking

Don’t Be an Enabler

Staying sober yourself is the most important thing you can do to keep Georgia highways safe. However, you can also go a few steps further to help stop others from drinking and driving. Consider the following if you are around friends or family who are drinking away from their final destination:

• Be a designated driver.
• Call an Uber, Lyft or other Rideshare company
• Take away the keys of an impaired friend or family member

Protect Yourself on the Road

A drunk driver can be on the roads at any time of day. However, driving under the influence is more prevalent late at night or during holidays. Therefore, you may want to take extra precautions during these times.

• Be careful at intersections.
• Keep ample distance from car in front of you.
• Stay in the right lane on highways for easy exit or pulling over.
• Let a suspicious driver pass.
• Call 911 to notify authorities.
• Wear your seatbelt!

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Have you been injured in car wreck involving alcohol? Attorney Darrell T. Farr is an experienced personal injury lawyer in Georgia who understands how to defend clients in automobile accidents involving drunk driving. While we do our best to help protect individuals from such devastating car crashes, our law office is also equipped to fight for your rights when drunk driving accidents do occur. Call Darrell T. Farr today to schedule your consultation.