How to Report a Drunk Driver in Atlanta, GA
Drunk drivers are responsible for a significant number of traffic fatalities and severe injuries each year. Therefore, it is critical to report any driver you suspect is intoxicated.
Keep Your Distance
When you spot a drunk driver, the first thing you should do is pull over or put as much distance as possible between you and them. That way, you are not put at risk by their dangerous driving.
Call 911
Call 911 and report the drunk driver to the police as soon as possible. Be prepared to give your location, the direction you are heading, and a description of the vehicle, such as the make, model, color, and any part of their license plate if you have memorized it. The sooner you contact the police, the higher the chance they can apprehend the drunk driver and prevent an accident. Once you notify law enforcement, check if there is another route you can take if you are worried about catching up to the drunk driver.
How to Spot a Drunk Driver
Keep the following signs in mind when on the road so you can spot an impaired driver.
Swerving
Swerving is one of the most apparent intoxicated driving behaviors that are easy to notice. Driving in a straight line is easy for drivers when sober, but alcohol impacts a person’s ability to concentrate.
Excessive Braking or Traveling Below the Speed Limit
Drunk drivers can overcompensate by braking more frequently or driving slower than the speed limit. These behaviors can cause hazards to others on the road who don’t expect a vehicle to brake or drive so slowly, especially if on a freeway.
Hugging the Center Line
Intoxicated drivers tend to drive too closely to the center line.
Tailgating
Drunk drivers may persistently follow the car in front of them to try to hide that they are impaired. Therefore, if another car is constantly too close to your vehicle when there is an empty passing lane, it can be a sign that the driver is impaired.
Serious Traffic Violations
A drunk driver may fail to turn on headlights, use signals to turn, run red lights or stop signs, drive the wrong way in traffic, stop at an intersection when they have the right of way, abruptly change lanes, speed, weave through traffic, and more.
What to Do if You Are Hit by a Drunk Driver
The steps you take after a drunk driving accident are critical to your health and claim for compensation.
- Try to Remain Calm: You may be in pain and in shock, but try to stay calm to help you make rational decisions.
- Call 911: Notify the police of the collision, even if no one is hurt. When an officer arrives, tell them you believe the driver is intoxicated. They will assess the situation and arrest the driver if necessary. Medical responders will also come to check if anyone is injured and must be transported to the hospital.
- Take Photos and Video: If you are not taken to the hospital, stay at the scene and take photos and video of the vehicles, your injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Ask For Contact Information: If the other driver is coherent, you can ask for their contact and insurance information, but the police will include this information in the police report. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and if they will make a recorded statement on your phone.
- Get Medical Attention: Seek medical care as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Medical records must link your injuries to the drunk driving accident.
Lastly, schedule a free consultation with an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer to ensure your rights are protected, and you recover full and fair compensation.