What To Do If You Spot A Drunk Driver

Even if you personally understand how important it is to avoid drinking and driving, you should never assume that every other driver will take the same level of care. Despite the safety risks and potential for serious criminal charges, there will always be people who drink and drive.

Here are the three steps you should take if you spot an impaired driver:

• Keep a safe distance: You should never attempt to follow the person, stop their vehicle or get their attention. Keep away from the vehicle so you don’t put yourself in harm’s way.
• Gather information: This includes the license plate number, make and model of the car or truck, its color and any distinguishing features. Again, you should never put your safety at risk while trying to gather this information.
• Call 911: If you’re able to safely do so using a hands free device, call 911 to report the driver. If it’s unsafe to make the call while driving, stop your vehicle and then pick up your phone. Provide the dispatcher with the details you’ve gathered, as well as what you’re seeing and the person’s exact location.

Once you do these things, you can assume that police will be dispatched to the area to take a closer look.

If you’re injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, move to safety, call for help and administer first aid until an ambulance arrives.

Once you receive treatment for your injuries, focus on the cause of the accident, the steps you can take to hold the drunk driver responsible and the best way to file an insurance claim. Doing these things will allow you to better protect your legal rights.