Driving safely should be a top priority for every driver, especially in a bustling city like Chicago. And yet, drunk driving remains a pervasive problem that claims countless lives each year. Most drivers are likely aware that getting behind the wheel while impaired is not a safe way to operate a vehicle. However, many drivers still drive while drunk, either due to recklessness or the assumption that they can hold their liquor well.
The Loop, a bustling hub of activity, and expressways like the Kennedy and Dan Ryan, which funnel traffic in and out of the city, are prime examples of places where the threat of drunk drivers is ever-present. With this knowledge in mind, it’s crucial for road users to make proactive efforts to avoid drunk drivers on the roads. Understanding that the danger isn’t confined to high-speed situations is important. Even at low speeds, impaired drivers pose a significant risk to everyone on the road.
Recognize the signs of drunk driving
The first line of defense against drunk drivers is awareness. Road users can improve their safety if they can recognize the signs of an impaired driver. When a driver’s driving abilities are impaired by alcohol, they may exhibit erratic driving behavior, such as:
- Swerving in and out of traffic
- Making sudden, unreasonable stops
- Driving at inconsistent speeds
By increasing the distance between them and the potentially drunk driver, road users can minimize the possibility of becoming collateral damage if the reckless driver causes an accident. If the erratic driver is behind, road users should be prepared to move out of their way to avoid any negative impact.
Drunk drivers also tend to have slow reactions to changes in traffic. They may have a delayed response to:
- Changes in traffic signals
- Approaching stop signs
- Approaching pedestrians
When road users notice a driver taking longer than usual to respond to changes in traffic, they should know that this may indicate impairment. Furthermore, impaired drivers tend to be forgetful, and they may forget to turn on their headlights at night or in low-visibility conditions. This is another red flag that road users should keep an eye out for.
By recognizing the signs of impaired driving, road users can significantly reduce their risk of injury from drunk drivers. That said, road users shouldn’t shy away from pursuing compensation if a drunk driver injures them despite taking reasonable precautions.