Tips For Safeguarding Against Drunk Drivers
Every summer in Washington and across the US, we drive more miles and longer hours, which increases the risk of an accident. The summer also shows a rise in drunk driving accidents, especially around the holidays. The experts behind drivingtests.org has offered 7 tips to protect us all from the danger of a drunk driver.
- Buckle up. Your seat belt is the first line of defense in an accident. The risk of severe injury or fatality is much lower if your seat belt is properly fastened. Without a seat belt, you are far more likely to be ejected from your car after an accident.
- Keep your distance. The closer you are traveling to the car in front of you, the less time you have to react to sudden hazards. Keep at least a few car lengths of space between you and the car you’re following. This will give you time to react should that driver suddenly swerve, drive erratically, or slam on the brakes.
- Use caution in intersections. Accidents happen in intersections more often than anywhere else. This is especially true if a drunk driver runs a red light or blows past a stop sign. Whenever you approach an intersection, take your time. Look both ways before proceeding. When the light changes green, wait for one second before crossing, in the event a drunk driver speeds through a red light.
- Avoid driving late at night. Far too often, drivers decide to get behind the wheel late at night after drinking too much at a party or an event. When possible, avoid driving in the middle of the night, as you are more likely to encounter a drunk driver. If you have to be out at night, stay alert and drive defensively.
- Holidays can be hazardous. Holidays show an increase in DUIs and drunk driving accidents. Take extra caution on summer holidays as well as New Years’ Eve.
- Be a designated driver. Drinking with your friends is fun. Ensuring your friends get home safe means you will both be there for the next party.
- Support law enforcement. Police set up checkpoints to keep our roads safer. The drunk driver who gets arrested at a checkpoint is a drunk driver who isn’t responsible for a devastating accident. We need to support our police officers in their efforts to keep our roads safer.
When a driver decides to get behind the wheel after a few drinks, they are recklessly putting their own lives and the lives of everyone they meet at risk. We fully support measures that will decrease the risk of a devastating drunk driving accident.
If your life or a loved one’s life has been impacted by a drunk driver, contact Spokane car accident lawyer Richard E. Lewis today. Our team will fight to get you the care and compensation you deserve.