While driving on a New York roadway, the risk of injury increases if there are intoxicated motorists nearby. Even the most cautious and alert driver may not be able to avoid an accident if a drunk driver is sharing the road. A collision can occur at any time but is more likely when a drunk driver gets behind the wheel.
There are several telltale signs that can alert travelers when a drunk driver is in the vicinity. If possible, it is always best to exit the roadway, and if possible, pull over and report erratic driving behavior to 911 or the police. Officers are usually dispatched to investigate.
8 signs that a drunk driver is on the road
These driving behaviors are common among people who drive after drinking alcohol:
- Failing to stop at red lights or failing to accelerate at green lights
- Swerving from side to side or from lane to lane
- Randomly apply the brakes
- Travel below the posted speed limit
- Stopping while traffic is still moving.
- Straddling the line that separates lanes
- Entering a road in the wrong direction.
- Take turns too sharply or widely.
There may be other reasons for these driving behaviors, such as someone nodding off at the wheel – which may or may not have been caused by driving while impaired. However, drunk drivers often exhibit these erratic maneuvers, which is why anyone nearby is at risk of collision.
Options for legal recourse
If a collision occurs, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. When drunk driving is a suspected cause of a New York car accident, a recovering victim may be entitled to file a personal injury claim in civil court. It is important to confer with an experienced personal injury attorney at the first opportunity following the accident.