As the weather gets warmer, people tend to go out more and have fun at bars and clubs. Unfortunately, this also means they are more likely to drink and drive, resulting in otherwise avoidable accidents. To keep yourself safe, make sure to take these steps to protect yourself from drunk drivers:

• Stay alert with your hands on the wheel

1. 1. • The absolute best way to protect yourself from drunk drivers is to always be alert and ready to respond if someone starts acting strange. This means your eyes should always be on the road and your hands should always be on the wheel.

• Wear your seatbelt

1. 1. • While wearing a seatbelt might not stop an accident from happening, it can substantially lower the chances of a serious injury in the case of an accident. Without a seatbelt, you are much more likely to be severely hurt or killed in a crash with a drunk driver.

• Avoid speeding excessively

1. 1. • Keeping at or near the speed limit is usually the best policy, even if there are no drunk drivers around. If someone is driving drunk, however, avoiding speeding can give you more time to react to a potential drunk driver on the road.

• Watch for erratic driving behaviors

1. 1. • Make sure to pay attention to the telltale signs of a potential drunk driver. These include sudden stops and starts, swerving or zig-zagging between lanes, driving at night without lights, or driving on the median or curb.

• Stay clear of suspected drunk drivers

1. 1. • You should always make sure to give enough space between other vehicles so you have time to brake or maneuver, but it is especially important when dealing with drunk drivers. The more space you have, the better your chances of staying out of harm’s way.

• Avoid potential distractions

1. 1. • Distracted driving can be a hazard in its own right, but it can be especially dangerous when there are drunk drivers on the road. If you are not paying attention, you may not even notice someone driving erratically until it is too late.

• Use a designated driver

1. • If you intend to go out and drink yourself, you should make sure you have a designated driver to get you home. Failing that, using a rideshare service or taxi can also be a good way to avoid a drunk driving accident.

If you or someone you know has been in an accident that was the result of someone else’s negligence, contact the New York personal injury lawyers at the Katter Law Firm. We will help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation, contact us at 212-809-4293, or visit our contact page.