How to Spot a Drunk Driver

New Years is a time for celebration. What do Americans do to celebrate? Typically, it involves alcohol–sometimes too much of it. The good thing–taxi services exist through an app on your cell-phone that can get you a ride as quickly as possible. The bad thing–not everyone chooses to use the app. Some still choose to drive, even after too many drinks. Drunk driving can cause death within families and loss of important people. If you are on the road, and think someone may be driving drunk, call and report them to the police. You could be saving their life, or the life of another driver on the road.

Last year, Denver, Colorado increased the amount of DUI patrols in the city. As a result, 366 drivers were arrested for DUI. A total of 226 people died in alcohol-related crashes in Colorado in 2017. This is just one city.

Although there are enforcements against drunk driving, you should also be aware of other drivers. Be suspicious of everyone late at night, especially on holidays. Keep a close eye on those around you.

Signs that a driver could be drunk:

  • Weaving from side to side
  • Driving on the wrong side of the road
  • Driving on the shoulder of the road
  • Intense and unnecessary braking
  • Driving without turning the headlights on
  • Driving at a very low speed
  • Staying too close to the center lane marker
  • Making dangerously wide turns
  • Getting close to hitting another object or car
  • Tailgating
  • Rapidly accelerating

What to do when you think you’ve spotted a drunk driver:

  • Your main priority is your safety at this point. Drive far behind the driver, after first memorizing the license plate and make/model of the car.
  • Find an alternate route.
  • Dial 911 to report the drunk driver. Give the police the information you’ve gathered, plus the location and direction of travel. A description of exactly how the person was driving will also be necessary.
  • You shouldn’t try to pass the driver. They will likely be making unexpected moves, or stop abruptly. Be very cautious, with lots of space between you and the other driver.
  • Let the police handle the situation.

Fact: “On average, a drunk driver will drive 80 times under the influence before their first arrest.”  By reporting a drunk driver, you are making the roads safer for everyone.

By: KayLynn P.


Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Buzz Your
Insurance Agent

Search for a local agent with our agent finder map.

Agent Finder

Want to learn more about our blog writer?

Read more about KayLynn's background.

Click Here

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Read More Blogs

The Wanderer’s Playbook: The Art of Traveling on a Budget

A practical guide to finding and saving money on travel adventures.

The Entrepreneur’s Toolkit: From Startup to Success, Insuring Every Step of the Journey

A phase-by-phase guide for entrepreneurs on the essential business insurance policies they need.

Beyond a Payout: How Life Insurance is a Living Financial Tool

A guide to how life insurance can be a living financial tool, with a focus on its cash value component.

The Driver’s Playbook: How to Maximize Your Auto Insurance Benefits

A playbook for drivers, revealing key policy benefits and strategies to get the most from your auto insurance.

Beyond the Big House: Uncovering the Hidden Value in Home Insurance

A deep dive into the valuable but often overlooked components of a home insurance policy.

The Thrill of the Grill: A Masterclass in BBQ Perfection

An ultimate guide to mastering grilling and barbecue, with tips, techniques, and delicious recipes.

The Entrepreneur’s Armor: A Guide to Protecting Your Business

A crucial guide to business insurance, covering essential policies and strategies for entrepreneurs.

The Gift of Security: A Simple Guide to Life Insurance

An easy-to-understand guide to life insurance, explaining policy types and a simple way to calculate your needs.

Hitting the Road Safely: Understanding Your Auto Insurance Policy

A simple guide to auto insurance, explaining coverage, premiums, and tips for finding the best policy.

The Homeowner’s Handbook: Protecting Your Property and Peace of Mind

A clear guide to home insurance, covering policy types, inventory tips, and how to save money.