How to Spot an Impaired Driver
New Year’s is the perfect time to revisit the topic of sober driving. Alcohol isn’t the only factor that can impair a driver, however. Drugs, fatigue, and distractions like smartphones can also hinder drivers. Here are 10 top signs that indicate a driver is impaired, to help you and your passengers stay safe on the road — not only on New Year’s Eve, but all year long.
Common signs of impairment
- Drifting, weaving, or swerving on the road
- Tailgating other vehicles
- Driving in the middle or on the wrong side of the road
- Failing to turn on headlights at night
- Erratic braking
- Reacting slowly to traffic signals
- Accelerating or slowing down too quickly
- Driving slowly
- Making a turn that is too wide
- The driver appears to be drinking or positions their face close to the windshield, as if they can’t see
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What to do if you notice an impaired driver
If you happen to see a driver exhibiting any of these poor driving behaviors, it’s important to report the incident. Even if you’re almost home safe, you don’t want other drivers to be at risk of an accident due to the impaired driver. Call 911 to report the impaired driver. Be prepared to describe the location of the car, as well as the license plate number. You’ll also want to remember the make, model, and color of the vehicle, if possible.
Happy New Year’s from all of us here at The News Wheel. And remember to do your part to avoid impaired driving, so you and others can enjoy a fun and safe night out.
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The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.