A driver weaving or moving unpredictably between lanes can pose a serious danger. Alcohol impairment is one possible explanation, but distraction, fatigue, a medical event, or another factor may also be involved. Describe the driving you observed rather than diagnosing its cause.

Respond to the danger safely

Keep a safe distance and avoid confronting, following, or trying to stop the vehicle. If there is an immediate danger, contact emergency services when safe and provide the location, direction, vehicle description, and observed behavior. Do not create another hazard while recording it.

The NHTSA impaired-driving resource explains alcohol-related driving risks. General impairment information does not prove the cause of a particular lane departure.

After a collision, preserve observations

  • Record the lane movements, signals, speed changes, braking, and approximate sequence you actually observed.
  • Keep original dashcam footage, witness contacts, and police information.
  • Distinguish your own observations from statements supplied by others.
  • Preserve relevant driver statements and investigation details without assuming the outcome of testing or a criminal charge.

Criminal and civil questions differ

A citation, arrest, or test result can be relevant, but the injury claim still requires examination of causation and recoverable losses. A criminal proceeding also should not be assumed to preserve civil deadlines.

Keep treatment records, work restrictions, and expense evidence alongside the crash record. If a business may be involved, investigate its actual role rather than assuming responsibility.

See our drunk driving injury practice and when a business may have responsibility.

Talk with Logeman & Iafrate

Request a free consultation or call (734) 994-0200 to discuss your situation with our Ann Arbor office. Bring the relevant records and any insurer correspondence. Advice about your claim depends on the facts, coverage, and applicable deadlines.

General information only; this article is not legal advice for an individual case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does swerving alone prove intoxication?

No. It is an observation to investigate, not a diagnosis or final liability finding.

Should I follow the vehicle to get more evidence?

Do not create danger. Provide available information to appropriate responders when safe.

‍This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney at Logeman & Iafrate, P.C. for advice regarding your individual situation.