How To Identify An Impaired Driver

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You may know the dangers of drunk driving and are committed to never getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Sadly, some people choose to drive while impaired, putting themselves and everyone else on the road at risk. As a defensive driver, you should always be prepared for the worst.

10 Telltale Signs of An Impaired Driver

Knowing the signs of an intoxicated driver can help you take extra steps to stay safe, should you ever find yourself sharing the road with an impaired driver. Here are 10 telltale signs of drunk driving that you should always look out for, especially when you’re driving at night or during holiday celebrations:

  1. Swerving
  2. Hugging the center line
  3. Speeding or driving excessively slow
  4. Excessive braking and slow acceleration
  5. Persistent tailgating
  6. Running red lights or stop lights
  7. Making traffic violations
  8. Driving on the wrong side of the road
  9. Driving with their headlights off at night
  10. Almost striking an object, curb, or another vehicle

What To Do If You Spot An Impaired Driver

It can be extremely scary to be sharing the road with an impaired driver. If a driver is exhibiting any of the signs above and you believe them to be intoxicated, you should lower your speed to get completely behind the driver so that you are not next to them or in front of them. This way, you are safe if they swerve or fail to brake.

Alternatively, you can pull over completely in order to regroup. Use this time to call 9-1-1 or your local police department and report the driver immediately. Provide them with the following information:

  • The vehicle make and model
  • The driver’s physical appearance, if you saw the driver
  • The license plate number
  • Why you think the driver was potentially impaired

Injured In A Drunk Driving Accident

If you or a family member is injured in a drunk driving accident this Fourth of July, turn to Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman PLLC for aggressive, personalized legal representation in your corner. Our Mississippi car accident attorneys will fight for your recovery and maximum compensation on your behalf.

Contact our team to get started with a free consultation. If you are at the hospital or recovering at home, we are more than happy to schedule a meeting at a location that is convenient for you.

About the Author
Jefferson D. Gilder is a Partner at Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman and was admitted to the Mississippi and Tennessee Bars in 1990. Mr. Gilder is admitted to practice in all courts in Mississippi and Tennessee including Federal Court, the Fifth and Sixth Circuit Courts of Appeal, and the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Gilder's areas of practice include personal injury, criminal, medical malpractice, civil rights, and product liability. Mr. Gilder spent his first ten years as an attorney practicing with his father, Robert G. Gilder, at Gilder Law Firm in Southaven, Mississippi before forming Gilder, Howell & Assoc., P.A. with Jamie W. Howell, Jr. in June of 2000. This firm although as another legal entity has now combined their resources and experience with Chatham – Pittman, to form Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman. If you have any questions about this article, you can reach Jefferson through our contact page.