It’s no secret that motor vehicle accidents are common in Indiana. What people may not realize, however, is that a significant portion of these accidents are caused by drunk driving. If you’re a resident of this beautiful state, then you need to be aware of the dangers of drunk driving and how to avoid it.
How dangerous drunk driving is
Firstly, drunk drivers have slow reflexes, poor coordination and impaired judgment. This combination of factors makes it more difficult for them to control their car and make split-second decisions. For instance, they may misjudge a turn or fail to brake in time. As a result, motor vehicle accidents involving drunk drivers often involve high speeds and severe injuries.
What’s more, drunk driving isn’t just dangerous for the people in the car. It’s also dangerous for pedestrians and other motorists. In many cases, drunk drivers will veer into oncoming traffic or onto the sidewalk, putting innocent people at risk.
What should you do if you see a drunk driver on the road
If you see a drunk driver on the road, the best thing to do is to get out of their way. Do not try to pass them, and do not honk at them or flash your lights. This could startle them and cause them to lose control of their car. Instead, call the police and give them a description of the car, its location and its license plate number.
What if a drunk driver injures you in an accident?
If you’re injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. In Indiana, there is a “dram shop” law that allows people to also sue bars and restaurants that served alcohol to the drunk driver. This law is intended to hold these establishments responsible for their role in the accident.
Ultimately, the best way to avoid being involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver is to never drink and drive yourself. If you’re going to be drinking, make sure you have a designated driver or take a cab home. And if you see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to call the police.
