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What to Do If You Notice Someone Driving Erratically

Impaired and drunk driving is not limited to just the nighttime hours. People get behind the week at all times of the day and night after consuming too much alcohol or being impaired from drugs. Unfortunately, these people make driving on Ottawa roads that much more risky and can lead to accidents causing property damage and personal injuries.

If you notice another motorists driving in an erratic manner you should:

• Slow down and increase the distance between you and the other vehicle.
• If the vehicle is behind you, safely exit the road by pulling into a parking lot or turning onto a different street and allowing the driver to pass.
• When it is safe to do so, call the police and report the driver and provide as much vehicle information as you can, the road you are traveling on, and the direction the driver is heading.
• Never attempt to flag down the driver or stop them.
• Never pursue the vehicle or the driver.
• If the driver slows down, stops, and exits the vehicle, do not stop. Rather update the police as to the drivers present location.

By practicing the above habits whenever you notice people driving erratically on the roads, you reduce the risk of being involved in an accident and being injured.

The best course of action, if you intend to consume alcoholic beverages, is to not drive. You can rely upon public transport, taxi services, limo/car services, or a designated driver. The consequences of being charged and found guilty of an impaired driving offence has serious impacts on you, your loved ones, and your future including, but not limited to:

• Mandatory Driver License Suspensions of at Least a Year
• Driver License Reinstatement Fees
• Increased Insurance Rates Up to $5,000 Per Year!
• Court Fines and Fees
• Potential to Be Imprisoned for Varying Periods
• Personal Liability Civil Lawsuits
• Problems Finding and Maintaining Employment
• Installation and Monitoring of an Alcohol Interlock Device
• Costs for Educational and Alcohol Rehabilitation Courses

Most people do not think about the long term consequences drinking and driving can have and if more did, there would be fewer cases of impaired driving offences.

However, if you or a loved one is charged for an impaired driving offence, you need to find out your legal rights and what options you have available. The best way to do this is to contact an experienced DUI and impaired driving lawyer in Ottawa, like Celine Dostaler at Impaired Law Desk.

There are various ways to defend against the charges in order to obtain the best possible outcomes, as long as you have legal representation from a skilled Ottawa criminal defence lawyer working in your best interests.

DISCLAIMER: Please keep in mind the above information is provided for reference purposes only and should not be considered actual legal advice. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation appointment today with Celine Dostaler by calling 613-695-8595 now to obtain the legal advice you need!