Alcohol-related accidents happen with far too much frequency in Ohio and across the country. Indeed, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Ohio actually has a higher rate of drunk driving deaths than the national average, and more Ohio drivers admit to driving after drinking too much in comparison with the national average. In Ohio, about 2.2% of adult drivers say they have gotten behind the wheel in the last 30 days despite having too much to drink, while the national average is right around 1.9%. The rate of alcohol-related traffic deaths across the country is 3.3% of the 100,000 population, but that number increases to 3.5 in Ohio. In sum, if you are driving in Ohio, you need to take steps to avoid a drunk driving collision. The following are some tips to help you stay safe.
Avoid Nighttime Driving if You Can
It might not be possible each and every time, but if you are able to do so, avoid driving at night. Most drunk driving collisions happen during the nighttime, and particularly late at night and into the early hours of the morning. If you can avoid being on the road when drunk drivers are more likely to be out, you may avoid a collision.
Keep a Significant Following Distance
While it is important to maintain a significant following distance any time you are driving given that a quick stop can otherwise lead to a rear-end collision, an ample following distance is particularly important for avoiding a drunk driving crash. If you stay behind any vehicle by multiple car lengths, you will be able to determine whether a driver is behaving in an erratic manner that could suggest drunk driving. For example, a vehicle that swerves or that repeatedly speeds up and slows down could mean that the vehicle is being driven by an intoxicated driver. Do not try to pass the car. Instead, stay as far away as possible and, if you are able to do so, call the police.
Be Particularly Cautious at Intersections
Many drunk driving collisions happen at intersections because drunk drivers run stop signs or red lights. If you are driving late at night and you are approaching an intersection, take caution. Even if you have a green light or you have the right of way, proceed slowly and cautiously so that you might be able to spot a drunk driver before a collision occurs.
Get in Touch with Me for Help with Your Case
There is no excuse for intoxicated drivers, and nobody on the road should have to worry about the risks of being injured in a drunk driving crash. Yet many motorists do drive drunk, and they can cause serious and fatal injuries. If you or someone you love sustained serious injuries in a drunk driving collision, I want to work with you to ensure we hold that drunk driver accountable. I can speak with you today about your options for filing an insurance claim or a car accident lawsuit against the at-fault driver. When it comes to intoxicated driving collisions, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office today at 877.944.4373 to learn more about how I can help with your case.
