Report a drunk driver - call 911 - California O.T.S.
California Office of Traffic Safety & The Merced Police Department
Public Safety Announcement Information:
How To Spot an Alcohol-Impaired Driver:
Accelerating or decelerating quickly
Almost striking an object, curb, or vehicle
Appearing to be drunk (e.g., eye fixation, face close to windshield)
Braking erratically
Drifting; or moving in a straight line at a slight angle to the roadway
Driving anywhere other than on a road designated for vehicles
Driving into opposing crossing traffic
Driving on the wrong side of the road
Driving slower than 10 mph below the speed limit
Driving with headlights off at night
Following too closely
Signaling that is inconsistent with driving actions
Slow response to traffic signals
Straddling center or lane marker
Straddling lanes or tires on the center line
Stopping inappropriately (other than in a traffic lane)
Stopping without cause in traffic lane
Swerving
Tailgating
Tires on center marker or lane marker
Turning with wide radius
Turning abruptly or illegally
Weaving
Stopping without cause or erratic braking
Slow response to traffic signals (e.g. sudden stop or delayed start)
Weaving or zigzagging across the road
What to do when you spot an Impaired Driver:
Stay far behind the suspected drunk driver.
Get out of the way and expect the unexpected.
Wear your safety belt (and make sure that any children or other passengers have their safety belts fastened as well) - It is one of your best defenses against a drunk driver.
Stop right away and look for a phone.
Report suspected and impaired drivers to the CHP or local police by dialing 911. Give the location, direction of travel, and description of the car and driver's behavior.
What not to do when you spot an Impaired Driver:
Do not try to pass the car!
Do not try to stop the vehicle.
Do not follow too closely. The car may stop abruptly.
Do not attempt to act in the capacity of the police.
Do not try to detain or confront the driver.
Call the local police or 911 and let them take care of it!