(HealthDayNews) -- While you may not be in the habit of drinking and driving, you need to protect yourself against those who do.
The first step is to recognize signs that a driver may be intoxicated, says Bradley University in Illinois.
A driver may be drunk if he or she:
- Fails to stay in a lane.
- Drives erratically -- stops, turns, swerves suddenly -- or reacts slowly.
- Drives without headlights at night.
- Keeps windows open in cold or inclement weather.
- Narrowly avoids hitting objects or other cars.
If you suspect a driver is drunk, here's what you should do:
- Be prepared to take quick, evasive action.
- Stay as far away as possible; pull over and let the driver pass you.
- If the car is headed toward you, pull to the right, stop, honk your horn and flash your headlights if necessary.
- As soon as possible, notify the police or highway patrol.
