Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is incredibly dangerous. Despite knowing This, far too many motorists get behind the wheel while drunk every day in the United States.
This can result in tragic consequences. For example, in Avenal, California, a 2021 New Year’s day crash involving a drunk driver took the lives of nine people. This tragedy has prompted the National Transportation Safety Board to call for new vehicles to be equipped with detection Systems that would identify signs indicating a driver is intoxicated.
Information regarding how these systems would determine if a motorist is intoxicated is scanty. However, if a detection system did identify signs of intoxication, it might limit a motorist’s ability To start or continue operating their vehicle.
There’s no guarantee the NTSB’s recommendations will result in action. In the past, restaurants and beverage trade groups have voiced opposition to such measures, claiming they may Interfere with revenue. There is concern regarding whether customers will be comfortable purchasing alcoholic beverages if they fear that even having one drink at a restaurant will Prevent them from starting their vehicles when they leave.
That’s just one reason motorists shouldn’t necessarily assume new cars will be equipped with These systems per the NTSB’s requests. However, there are ways to identify and avoid intoxicated drivers with whom you may be sharing the road. Warning signs to look out for include the following:
DRIVING VERY FAST OR VERY SLOW
It’s easy to assume someone drunk will be more likely than a sober motorist too careless Drive more than the posted speed limit. If someone is speeding recklessly, keep your distance From their vehicle and consider alerting the police.
On the other hand, sometimes intoxicated drivers drive very slowly. They may do so because they know they’re too drunk to drive and thus wish to minimize their chances of being pulled Over.
SUDDEN ACCELERATING AND BRAKING
Another sign of an intoxicated motorist is sudden braking or acceleration. This often occurs for No clear reason.
FAILURE TO MAINTAIN A LANE
One of the clearest signs that someone is drunk behind the wheel is failure to maintain a lane. This sign might also indicate a driver is very tired. According to the CDC, driving while sleep-deprived can be as hazardous as driving while drunk at times.
Along with keeping an eye out for these warning signs, you should also strive to avoid driving Between the hours of midnight and three o’clock in the morning. Statistics indicate this is when drunk driving is the most prevalent. Naturally, drivers on the road at this time of night may also be Quite tired.
However, if you ever are injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver in California, you can at least seek financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other such losses by Filing a claim with your insurance company. At the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg, a Los Angeles car accident attorney can help you pursue the compensation for which you may be Eligible. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 310-997-0904.
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