Impaired drivers are a problem across Canada, and they put the public at serious risk of injuries and fatalities. If you see a driver whom you suspect to be intoxicated on the road, it is your duty as a motorist and a citizen to report the behavior. Reporting such activity swiftly could save lives, and it could prevent you from getting in an auto accident. Drunk driving, in particular, causes many preventable injuries and deaths every year. By taking note of what you see and letting the authorities know about it, you can help to reduce the number of auto accidents in BC and make local roads safer for everyone.
Pointers from a Driving School on Identifying and Reporting an Impaired Driver
It’s important to know how to detect possible impairment in a fellow driver. It’s also essential to know how to inform the authorities of your suspicion. Here are a few tips from your local driving school in Coquitlam:
- Drunk Driving Happens Around the Clock: Keep in mind that drunk driving happens at all times of the day and night. In fact, up to 25 percent of drunk driving violations may take place during normal business hours.
- What to Look for: You can train yourself to look for some of the most common indications of impaired driving. Those signs include very wide turns, weaving in and out of lanes, and inconsistent or extreme speeds. Another sign is stopping conspicuously soon before reaching a stop sign or traffic light. Other behaviors to look for include driving with no headlights, failing to heed traffic signs and lights, and aggressive driving.
- Know What to Do: If you see someone who appears to be inebriated while driving, you should act quickly if possible. However, you should never jeopardize your own ability to drive safely. If you can, you should try to make a note of the license plate number. Also, note the colour, make, and model of the vehicle. If you are able to see the driver, try to take note of his or her physical description and demeanour. Pay attention to the direction in which the suspected drunk driver is traveling.
- Call the Police: Once you have noted as much identifying information as you can, pull over to the side of the road. Call 911, and give the local authorities all of the details you were able to gather.
Take a Defensive Driving Course from north shore Driving School
Defensive driving is a skill that could help you to avoid an auto accident in BC. North Shore Driving School is one of the best driving schools. Our instructors will teach you to drive defensively, so you may avoid getting in a collision whenever possible. Unfortunately, an impaired driver can endanger even the most capable and confident of motorists. If you suspect that a motorist is driving while drunk, don’t hesitate to call the police.
The North Shore Driving School Car Division in North Vancouver is at 1821 Lonsdale Ave, and the number is 604-988-1138. Our Truck Division is in Burnaby at 2990 Norland Ave, and the number is 604-299-9292. You may also contact us online to inquire about our services in Coquitlam, Langley, and Abbotsford.