In 2009, there were nearly 400 alcohol-related traffic deaths in Georgia. This is an average of one death per day. It is possible that some of these Georgia DUI deaths could have been prevented if someone recognized the signs of drunk driving and called the police. Peachtree City auto injury lawyer Shane Smith lists these possible signs of drunk driving from the MADD website:
The driver appears drunk, is leaning to the side, or is hunched over.
The driver makes a wide radius turn on what should be an easily maneuvered turn.
The driver is driving on the center line or has his tires on the center lane or lane marker.
The driver is weaving either within or outside his lane.
The car is drifting to the right or left.
The driver almost strikes an object or another vehicle.
The driver is driving on the sidewalk, median, service road, shoulder, or emergency lane.
The driver is driving the wrong way.
The driver brakes erratically.
The driver stops inappropriately or stops in the traffic lane for no apparent reason.
The driver makes abrupt or illegal turns.
The driver is slow to react to traffic signals.
The driver is driving more than 10 mph below the speed limit.
The driver is traveling at erratic speeds; he suddenly speeds up or slows down.
The driver is following too closely.
The driver passes other cars too closely.
The driver gives improper signals or signals that don't correspond to his actions.
The driver's headlights are off when they should be on.
What should you do if you see a driver who may be drunk?
Wear your seat belt and make sure all of your passengers are buckled up.
Get out of the driver's way.
Stay as far behind the driver as possible.
Stop in a safe location.
Call 911 and give police your location and a description of the driver, his behavior, and his car.
Never try to pass the car or follow too closely.
Don't try to stop the vehicle or confront the driver.
Your thoughtful actions could prevent a Georgia drunk driving accident.
Peachtree City auto injury lawyer Shane Smith works hard to seek justice for victims in Georgia drunk driving cases. Learn more in his book, I Was Hit by a Drunk Driver: What Do I Do Next? To schedule a free consultation, contact Shane Smith Law a (980) 246-2656