You may or may not know that August is typically one of the deadliest months on our roadways.  All too often, people get behind the wheel after a night of drinking, and all too often the night ends in a tragedy.  If they are lucky, inebriated drivers end up behind bars after  being pulled over, I say they are lucky, because that means they didn't cause a terrible accident, they weren't able to hurt anyone.  That means that either a State Patrol Trooper spotted them on the roadway, or perhaps it was another driver who called it in.  Do you know what to do if you see someone on the road who believe is impaired?  The State Patrol says they encourage motorists in that situation to dial 9-1-1, with location, vehicle type and license plate if possible. They acknowledge that dialing 9-1-1 has traditionally been endorsed for current life threatening situations, but how better to eliminate a potential tragedy?   It's up to all of us to keep our roads safe.  So, what are the signs of an impaired driver?  Drunk drivers can exhibit a variety of behaviors depending upon impairment level.  

For example-  Those who know they are impaired:

- Travel slower than the posted speed limit
- Appear to be drunk (face close to the windshield)
- Slow responses to traffic signals, sudden stops, tapping of brake lights
- Travel side to side within and outside of their lane

Those who don’t think they are impaired generally drive a little more aggressively and:

- Speed
- Follow too closely
- Change lanes abruptly (weaving in and out of traffic)
- Travel side to side within and outside of their lane

Help keep our roads safe by reporting impaired drivers, and most of all, if you have been drinking, don't get behind the wheel.  Designate a sober driver before the night begins or take a cab!  You could be saving someone's life, including your own!

Click here for more info on the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.