Riding with a driver who has been drinking is one of the most dangerous situations anyone can face. Understanding the signs of a potentially drunk driver could save your life. Before diving into these warning signs, it’s crucial to remember that if you are hurt in such situations, you have protections under the law. The legal rights of passengers injured in drunk driving accidents include seeking compensation for injuries, trauma, and other damages resulting from the incident.
Unsteady Walking and Coordination Issues
If you notice your driver stumbling, losing balance, or leaning on surfaces to walk steadily before getting into the car, consider it a major red flag. Alcohol impairs the brain’s control over muscle coordination. Even if the driver insists they are fine, visible instability is a clear indication that they should not be behind the wheel.
Slurred or Slow Speech
Slurred, mumbled, or overly slow speech is another classic indicator of intoxication. Alcohol affects the central nervous system and delays the brain’s ability to control speech muscles. If your driver speaks in a way that’s unusual for them, it is best to call for an alternate ride or refuse to travel.
Strong Smell of Alcohol
The scent of alcohol on a person’s breath is often unmistakable. If you detect a strong smell of beer, whiskey, or any other alcohol, do not ignore it. Even if they say they drank “just one drink,” their blood alcohol concentration could still be above the legal limit, depending on their body weight, metabolism, and the drink consumed.
Overconfidence or Aggressive Behavior
Alcohol lowers inhibitions, making individuals act more confidently or aggressively than usual. If your driver seems overly energetic, loud, boastful, or is behaving in a reckless, dismissive manner, take this as a warning sign. They might feel they are in control, but in reality, their decision-making and reaction time are impaired.
Red, Glossy, or Watery Eyes
Alcohol can cause blood vessels in the eyes to expand, leading to redness and glassiness. If your driver has unusually red or glossy eyes along with other signs of drinking, avoid getting in the vehicle with them. Watery eyes can also occur due to alcohol’s dehydrating effects.
Slow Reaction and Delayed Responses
Ask your driver simple questions, such as “Where are we going again?” or “What time is it?” If they take longer than usual to process or answer, it may be because their brain’s processing speed is slowed down by alcohol. This delayed reaction time becomes dangerous on the road, where every second matters.
Erratic or Poor Judgment
Before getting into the car, observe how your driver interacts with others. Are they making inappropriate jokes, saying rude things, or showing poor judgment in their behavior? Alcohol impacts the frontal lobe of the brain, which is responsible for rational decision-making, self-control, and social behavior. If they are acting out of character, do not ignore it.
Difficulty Handling Keys or Unlocking the Car
Notice if your driver struggles to find their keys in their bag or pockets, or if they fumble while unlocking the car. Simple motor tasks become challenging under the influence of alcohol. If unlocking the car is difficult, operating it on the road will be even more dangerous.
Driving Behavior That Raises Concern
If you are already in the vehicle and notice signs like swerving, drifting between lanes, inconsistent braking, or driving at inconsistent speeds, these are critical signs of impairment. Politely ask them to pull over and consider calling a friend, rideshare, or taxi to reach your destination safely.
What Should You Do?
Your life is too valuable to risk. If you spot any of these signs, it is best to refuse the ride. Call a family member, another friend, or use a rideshare service instead. If your driver is insistent or becomes aggressive, step away and prioritize your safety. Never assume they will “drive slow” to compensate for their condition.
Know Your Rights if Injured
Despite precautions, if you ever get into a car with a drunk driver and an accident occurs, remember that legal rights of passengers injured in drunk driving accidents protect you. You may be entitled to file a claim for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. Seeking legal guidance promptly will help you understand your options and receive fair compensation for your suffering.
Final Thoughts
Never underestimate the risks of riding with an intoxicated driver. Spotting these signs early can prevent tragic outcomes. Always trust your instincts, stay vigilant, and prioritize your life and well-being over convenience or social obligation.
