Impaired driving is a severe problem in the United States. Every day, 30 people die as a result of alcohol-impaired driving crashes. That’s one person every 53 minutes. This number could be reduced if drivers were better educated about the signs of impairment. This blog post will discuss the signs of impairment and how you can save lives by speaking up if you see someone who appears to be impaired behind the wheel.
What Are The Signs Of Impaired Driving?
Impaired driving is a severe offense, also known to many as drunk driving. It’s not only illegal in all 50 states, but it’s also dangerous and can lead to tragic consequences, such as car accidents and even fatalities.
So, what are the signs of impaired driving? First and foremost, if you see a driver swerving in and out of their lane or driving erratically, that’s a major sign that they may be impaired. Other signs include speeding, braking suddenly or inappropriately, and making wide turns.
If you see a driver exhibiting any of these behaviors, it’s essential to take action and report them to the authorities. By doing so, you could potentially save lives. If you’ve been involved in a road collision associated with impaired driving, it’s best to reach out to a Woodbury MN Dwi Lawyer to protect your legal rights. They can help you navigate the often-complex legal process and help you get the best possible outcome.
Reaction – Time Is Slowed
A sign of impaired driving is slowed reaction time. This means that the driver may not be able to react as quickly as they usually would if they were sober. This can lead to them not being able to brake in time or swerving into oncoming traffic. If you see a driver who appears to be having trouble keeping up with traffic flow, take notice.
Poor Muscle Coordination
Another sign of impaired driving is poor muscle coordination. The driver may have trouble doing simple tasks, such as turning the steering wheel or using their turn signal. They may also have difficulty sitting up straight or keeping their eyes open. If you see a driver who appears to be having trouble with basic coordination, take action.
Inhibition Is Reduced
This means that the driver may be more likely to take risks or make poor decisions. They may also act out in aggressive or violent ways. If you see a driver who appears to be acting out of character, take notice.
Judgment Is Impaired
This means that the driver may not be able to make sound decisions. They may, for example, decide to drive when they’re tired or impaired. Although they may think they’re fine to drive, their judgment is impaired. If you see a driver who appears to be making poor decisions, take action.
How To Save Lives By Speaking Up
If you see a driver who appears to be impaired, the best thing you can do is to speak up and report them to the authorities. You can do this by calling 911 or your local police department. Be sure to give them a description of the vehicle, its license plate number, and the driver’s location.
It’s also essential to stay on the line with the dispatcher until help arrives. This way, you can provide them with any additional information they may need, such as changes in the driver’s behavior or their current location.
By speaking up, you could potentially save lives. So, don’t be afraid to take action if you see a driver who appears to be impaired.
Consequences Of Impaired driving
While the immediate consequences of impaired driving are apparent – you could get into an accident or hurt yourself or someone else – there are also long-term consequences. For example, you could lose your driver’s license, face steep fines, or even be sent to jail.
In addition, your insurance rates will go up, and you may have trouble finding a job, as many employers conduct background checks that include driving records. So, the consequences of impaired driving are far-reaching and can severely impact your life.
Don’t take risks when it comes to driving. If you’re drinking, make sure you have a designated driver or take a cab. It’s not worth the risk of losing your license, going to jail, or worse.
How To Prevent Impaired Driving Accidents On Roadways?
The best way to prevent impaired driving accidents is never to drink and drive. In addition, always be aware of your surroundings when you’re on the road. If you see a driver who appears to be impaired, report them to the authorities. And, if you’re ever in doubt about your sobriety, don’t hesitate to call a cab or ask a friend for a ride home.
By taking these simple precautions, you can help make our roads safer for everyone. So, do your part to prevent impaired driving accidents and save lives.
When To Seek Legal Help?
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by an impaired driver, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer can review your case and help you understand your legal options. Contact a lawyer today to get started on your claim.
No one should have to suffer because of someone else’s poor decisions. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by an impaired driver, seek legal help to get the compensation you deserve.
Final Words
Saving lives is essential, but so is protecting your rights. Although accidents caused by impaired drivers are 100% preventable, they still happen. If you’ve been involved in such an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer to get started on your claim. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, and a lawyer can help you understand your legal options.