Citizens Stop Drunk Driver - Champs or Chumps?

[Alex]

I was listening to the local Conservative radio talk show this morning and they talked about an interesting story that happened here in Wisconsin recently.

A 63 year old man was driving along and noticed that another vehicle was not driving very well. It was obvious to the old man that the driver was drunk. So the old man parked his car in front of the other vehicle at a stop light and called the police. Two other people in vehicles noticed what was happening and assisted the elderly man.

When the police came, the man behind the wheel of the car that was not driving properly blew a 0.32 on the breathalyzer test.

So the host of the show asked the question: "Are the private citizens champs or chumps for doing this?"

 

[talloulou]

I applaud them but don't think it would be safe or wise to do this in all circumstances. Many people who are drunk driving have all ready been cited for doing so in the past and the lengths they will go through to escape capture a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th time can be extreme and dangerous. Cops often have trouble pulling these folks over and often chases and even more dangerous driving ensues.

So I'd say it all depends on common sense. If it seems doable and easy then kudos. But don't put yourself or even others in even more danger by trying to play hero.

 

[quatrotritikali]

I think the old man did a good deed, and meant well, however dangerous it could have ended up for him.

I have called the police on drunk drivers before, when I worked in a convenience store long time ago. And I would do so today, especially since it's so easy to pick up the ole cell phone and phone it in as it's happening.

Drunk drivers need to be taken off the streets whenever possible...if for no other reason than to safeguard the innocents on the highways.

 

[rathi]

Stopping drunk drivers from driving is a good idea. How you go about stopping them may or may not be a good idea. In this case, we weren't there so its very difficult to size up the situation. However, it appears that the guy made the right choice and things turned out for the best.

I know I've been attacked while preventing drunk people from driving home from parties. However, I know what I am getting into and trust that I can handle the situation or have other back me up if things get ugly.

 

[1069]

My husband and I routinely call 311 when we see someone who is driving unsafely/ erratically and appears to be intoxicated.
They connect us to the police, and we report the vehicle's license number.
What happens after that, I have no idea.
I have no problem reporting drunk drivers, but I think attempting to stop them oneself is foolhardy.

 

[Lerxst]

Champs...no doubt.