Which of the following may be a sign of an impaired driver?

Which of the following may be a sign of an impaired driver?

• A. Rapid acceleration
• B. Consistent speed
• C. Swerving and erratic braking
• D. Use of turn signals

Answer: (C)

Swerving and erratic braking is a significant indicator of an impaired driver because these behaviors suggest a lack of control and awareness. Impaired drivers often have difficulty maintaining a straight path on the road, leading to frequent swerving, which can be a result of their compromised judgment, motor skills, or reflexes. Erratic braking may indicate that the driver is unable to gauge distances properly or react appropriately to changing traffic conditions, further demonstrating the impairment. In contrast, rapid acceleration might occur due to aggressive driving habits rather than impairment, while consistent speed often reflects safe driving practices. The use of turn signals shows an awareness of the responsibility to communicate intentions to other drivers, which is less likely to be exhibited by someone who is impaired. Thus, swerving and erratic braking are strong indicators of impairment and should raise immediate concerns about the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Swerving and erratic braking is a significant indicator of an impaired driver because these behaviors suggest a lack of control and awareness. Impaired drivers often have difficulty maintaining a straight path on the road, leading to frequent swerving, which can be a result of their compromised judgment, motor skills, or reflexes. Erratic braking may indicate that the driver is unable to gauge distances properly or react appropriately to changing traffic conditions, further demonstrating the impairment.

In contrast, rapid acceleration might occur due to aggressive driving habits rather than impairment, while consistent speed often reflects safe driving practices. The use of turn signals shows an awareness of the responsibility to communicate intentions to other drivers, which is less likely to be exhibited by someone who is impaired. Thus, swerving and erratic braking are strong indicators of impairment and should raise immediate concerns about the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.