Part of the fun of summer is taking your annual road trip between Vermont and New Hampshire. Road trips, however, present dangers from other drivers, specifically drunk drivers. You can stay safe during your travels by knowing how to spot a drunk driver.
The effects of alcohol on motorists
Motorists can be negatively affected by alcohol use. Even if your blood-alcohol concentration is below the legal limit, you can still be too impaired to drive safely.
A motorist with a BAC of 0.08% can find it hard to concentrate on the task of driving. Their short-term memory can be impaired. They may not be able to process information very quickly and their perception can be impaired.
Even if a motorist only has a BAC of 0.05, they can be too impaired to drive. Coordination becomes more difficult, and they may have problems tracking moving objects. Their ability to respond to emergencies can also be affected.
How to spot a drunk driver
If you are on the road this summer, it is good to know how to spot drunk drivers sharing the road with you. A drunk driver may quickly speed up or slow down. They may tailgate or swerve between lanes.
Drunk drivers may drive off the road and they may come close to striking other vehicles. They may stop driving in the middle of the road for no reason. They may have a slow response to traffic lights. They may drive down the center lane or forget to turn their headlights on at night.
Drunk drivers may drive well below the posted speed limit. They may make abrupt or illegal turns. Finally, they may drive the wrong way down the road.
Drunk drivers cause car accidents
Your summer fun can quickly end if you are struck by a drunk driver. Motor vehicle accidents can cause serious injuries or even death. If a drunk driver injures you this summer, you will want to take all the necessary steps to pursue the compensation you deserve.