4 Important Steps On Reporting A Drunk Driver In Florida

July 15, 2022 Personal Injury

Drunk drivers are a danger to themselves and anyone else on the roadways. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately one in three traffic deaths in the United States involves a drunk driver. So if you suspect a person is driving while intoxicated, don’t feel guilty about reporting them. You may save their lives and the lives of other passengers on the roadways. The following are steps you can take to report a person that is driving drunk to the correct authorities.

Don’t Get Too Close

The first thing to remember if you see a person that you suspect is driving while intoxicated is do not try to stop them yourself or drive too close to them. Doing so may end up causing you to be involved in an accident. So instead, follow at a safe distance.  

There are certain tell-tell signs that a driver is intoxicated. Signs to look for include:

  • Driving significantly slower or faster than the posted speed limit (or a combination of both)
  • Erratic swerving 
  • Ignoring posted street signs, such as stop signs
  • Stopping in traffic for no discernable reason
  • Drifting in and out of different traffic lanes
  • Driving in inappropriate areas, such as on sidewalks or through an area meant for pedestrians
  • Driving on the wrong side of a road

Remember Identifying Information

To be able to report the drunk driver to the proper authorities, you need to pay attention to certain details. First, take a mental note of the type of vehicle the drunk driver is operating, including its color, make, model, and other identifying characteristics. If possible, obtain the driver’s license number of the vehicle. Next, pay attention to the vehicle’s direction and if the driver turns or starts heading in a different direction. 

Most importantly, do not risk your safety, or the safety of your passengers, in obtaining this information. While it is helpful to have, it is not worth causing an accident to get these details. Remember, a drunk driver is unpredictable and erratic, and it is never advisable to drive very close to them. 

Call Emergency Services

It is always appropriate in Florida to call 9-1-1 in an emergency situation. You may also call *FHP (star 347) to report a drunk driver. If you are a passenger in a car or are able to make this call without using your hands, please do so. If not, pull over to a safe place and stop before calling. Tell the operator where you saw the vehicle and any of the identifying information you can remember. It is also a good idea to let them know why you suspect the driver may be intoxicated. 

Speak With A Florida Drunk Driver Lawyer 

If a drunk driver has injured you or someone you know, contact Martin Law Firm, P.L. to find out how our attorneys can help. With four locations throughout Florida, we are never that far away. You may contact us by calling 239-323-9820 or via our contact page