The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that drunk driving accounted for 10,511 deaths related to fatal crashes in 2018. NHSTA further stated that this numbers means 30 people a day are dying related to these crashes. If you are a commuter or anyone who uses roads with any frequency, it’s helpful to know how to stay safe and avoid these reckless drivers.

What to look for

Here are some of the tips compiled by Mother’s Against Drunk Driving to help you spot a driver who may be drunk:

• Does the driver cross traffic lanes repeatedly?
• Has the car crossed the center lane into oncoming traffic?
• Is he or she driving well below the posted speed limit?
• Are headlights off when they should be on?
• Does the driver signal right but then turn left?

Any of these actions should be a red-flag warning you the driver may be unsafe and could be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What can you do to avoid a crash?

Finding yourself on the road with a potentially unsafe other vehicle is unnerving to say the least. The best thing you can do to avoid a collision with a drunk driver is to stay far away from them. You can call 911 to alert the police for your safety and the safety of others. Be prepared to give the location, make and model, and license plate of the vehicle, if possible.

Being able to spot someone driving who has had too many drinks may save your life.