The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that at least 4 million Americans get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol more than 100 million times per year. These figures are staggering, especially considering the fact that all it takes is one drunk driver to cause a catastrophic collision.
After just two beers, the average person has somewhat impaired judgment and finds multitasking challenging. After five beers, reaction time is markedly slower, and coordination is poor.
When you consider the side effects that alcohol has on the body, it quickly becomes obvious why drinking and driving is so dangerous. Unfortunately, that does not stop millions of Americans from doing it every single year.
When you know the most common signs of drunk driving, you can look for them in traffic, which may give you enough time to make an evasive maneuver if necessary. In certain circumstances, though, some crashs simply come out of nowhere, and there is no way to avoid them.
If you were hurt in a collision with an impaired motorist, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. to find out if you have grounds for a claim. As soon as you enter our office, we will talk with you honestly about your case and start planning a strategy for seeking the compensation you deserve. Call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free consultation with an wreck attorney in Nashville.
Common Signs of Drunk Driving
The most common signs of operating a vehicle while impaired can be divided into four broad categories. These are:
- Issues staying in the proper lane;
- Difficulty maintaining a constant or appropriate speed;
- Problems with vigilance; and
- Misjudgments.
Issues staying in the proper lane may be exhibited as:
- Weaving;
- Making wide turns;
- Swerving;
- Crossing over the white or yellow lines; and
- Drifting off the road.
Signs of speeding or braking difficulties include:
- Stopping short;
- Varying the speed abruptly for no apparent reason; and
- Driving more than 10 mph under the posted limit despite safe road conditions.
Vigilance problems encompass everything from failing to turn on the headlights to traveling the wrong way down a one-way street. At the end of the day, any kind of strange or erratic driving could be indicative of vigilance problems, which may be a sign of impairment.
Misjudgments are also a fairly broad category. Some examples include following other vehicles too closely, making unsafe lane changes, and taking turns too fast.
If you notice a motorist exhibiting any of the above signs, it is best to keep your distance. If possible, take note of the vehicle’s make and model, and pull over to a safe place so you can inform the local authorities. They should send someone to assess the situation, which could potentially save lives.
Of course, it may not be possible to identify every impaired motorist before a crash occurs. If you were hurt in a collision with a drunk driver, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. for quality legal counsel during every stage of the claims process.
Contact us online or call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free case evaluation with an wreck lawyer in Nashville. You can learn more about personal injury claims in Tennessee by visiting the USAttorneys website.
Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr.
First-Third Center
424 Church Street, Suite 2000
Nashville, TN 37219
800-427-8960
