Tips to Avoid Becoming a Drunk Driving Victim

Did you know that an average of 37 people die each day in drunk driving accidents across the U.S.? That’s just one scary drunk driving victim statistic from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA also found that more than 13,000 people die yearly in alcohol-related car crashes, making up about 31 percent of all traffic fatalities. 

Identifying signs of an intoxicated motorist and learning how to avoid drunk drivers can help you take defensive action if you encounter one on the road. 

Understanding the Risks of Drunk Driving Accidents

Intoxication is measured based on a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC). BAC depends on a few physical characteristics, like gender, weight, and whether someone has eaten. The legal BAC limit for driving in Georgia is 0.08 percent. 

Alcohol reduces a person’s ability to concentrate and impairs coordination, both of which can make them a danger if they get behind the wheel. Intoxicated drivers might drift into another lane or swerve into a stationary object. Alcohol also lowers inhibitions, making drinkers take risks they otherwise wouldn’t, like speeding, tailgating, or other reckless driving.

Accidents caused by drunk drivers can have serious consequences for victims, potentially leaving them permanently disabled or facing months of painful recovery.

How Can You Spot a Drunk Driver?

One telltale sign that a driver is drunk is them weaving back and forth, unable to stay in their lane. Excessive amounts of alcohol in the bloodstream can cause blurry or double vision. This makes it hard for the driver to determine where the guidelines for each lane are, while the effects on fine motor skills make it harder for them to control their vehicle. Other signs of a possible drunk driver are if they suddenly stop, turn without slowing or signaling, or almost hit an object like a curb or median only to swerve at the last minute.

There are many ways to avoid drinking and driving. Offering to be a designated driver or suggesting splitting the cost of a rideshare can help keep you and your friends safe. 

What to Do After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver

If you suspect the other driver in a crash is intoxicated, call the police immediately. The responding officer can administer a breath alcohol test. If the driver is drunk, they can be arrested on the spot.

Use caution when interacting with a drunk driver. They may be violent or aggressive because of the alcohol or try to intimidate you into not calling the police.

Seek medical attention after the accident, and call an attorney as soon as possible. They can help you pursue the compensation you need to pay for your medical bills, offset any lost income, repair your vehicle, and otherwise rebuild your life.

Contact Our Canton Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Today

The team at Geiger Legal Group, LLC is here for you in the painful aftermath of a drunk driving accident. We know you’re worried and hurt, and we want you to know you’re not alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out what our Canton drunk driving accident lawyers can do for you.