Do Drunk Drivers Drive Fast or Slow?
Keeping an eye out for any suspicious or concerning behavior on the roads is key to avoiding a potential car accident. Though we can follow the rules of the road and drive responsibly all we want, we unfortunately have no control over how others drive. When it comes to identifying drunk drivers, one of the most common signs of intoxication is speed change. But do drunk drivers drive fast or slow?
As it turns out, drunk drivers are known for driving at both high and low speeds. Though the legal limit of blood alcohol concentration is .08 percent, alcohol can start affecting the brain at .02 percent. When people are inebriated, their judgment is as affected as their coordination. Because of that lack of judgment, drivers may have difficulty judging speed and either step hard on the gas or drive slower than the speed limit as a result.
There are, however, a few specific reasons why a drunk driver might drive too fast or slow, including:
- Alcohol can lead to risky behaviors: People under the influence of alcohol are more inclined to make risky, impulsive decisions, which is why drunk people are known to get into fights and physical altercations. They’re also known to drive above the speed limit and ignore stop signs and red lights, which can result in fast driving.
- Alcohol is a depressant that can slow down speed: Because alcohol is a depressant that impacts a person’s coordination and perception, what the driver may think is a normal speed may in fact be slower than usual. In addition, their movements may be delayed, resulting in them taking longer times to change lanes, make turns, and go when the light turns green.
If you see a driver traveling extremely slowly and causing traffic or a driver who is speeding and driving aggressively, these are signs that they may be drunk. To ensure the safety of yourself and others. Make sure to stay far behind the suspected drunk driver and be wary, as drunk drivers can be unpredictable. If you’re fairly certain the driver is intoxicated, pull over to a safe place and call the authorities, providing as much detail and description of the driver and vehicle as possible.
Holding Negligent Drivers Responsible
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you may be eligible to seek compensation in a personal injury claim. All drivers are required to drive responsibly and any actions or behaviors that prevent this, such as driving under the influence of alcohol, can be considered negligence. Our lawyers can help you navigate the legal process to ensure you can cover the costs of your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and more.
Have you been injured in a car accident? Whether it was caused by a drunk driver or some other kind of negligence, you can trust Dunk Law Firm to look out for your interests. Contact us online or by phone at (800) 674-9339 for a free consultation in English or Spanish.
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