Regardless of the time of day, it’s possible you could encounter a drunk driver on the highway. For example, someone who is swerving, driving the wrong way on a one-way street or driving very slowly may be under the influence of alcohol.
Here are three steps to take if you spot a drunk driver:
- Keep your distance: The closer you drive to this person, the greater chance there is of getting into an accident with them. Stay as far away as possible.
- Collect descriptive details of the vehicle: This typically includes the license plate number, color, make and model. While doing so, don’t get too close and risk your own safety.
- Call 911: Depending on the circumstances, you may want to call 911 to notify police that there is a dangerous driver on the road. In addition to sharing the descriptive information you collect, provide the dispatcher with the vehicle’s precise location. This makes it easier for police to respond in a timely manner.
The primary thing to remember is that you’re not a police officer. You should never attempt to take action on your own, such as trying to pull the vehicle over to the side of the road.
If a drunk driver causes an accident, move to safety and call 911. Explain what happened and request that an ambulance and police come to the scene.
As your health allows, learn more about your legal rights while filing a claim with your insurance company. You should do whatever it takes to hold the drunk driver responsible for their actions, as doing so will allow you to pursue compensation for your injuries and related damages.