How to Report a Drunk Driver in Florida
If you see a suspected drunk driver in Florida, call 911 or dial FHP (347) from your mobile phone. Provide dispatchers with key details like the location, direction of travel, and a description of the vehicle—but never put yourself in harm’s way.
Every year, drunk driving causes thousands of crashes on Florida’s roads. Being a proactive and informed driver can help keep others safe—and potentially save lives.
Orange County – Motor Vehicle Collision
Plaintiff, driving his personal vehicle, was hit in the passenger side by another driver operating a large pickup truck who ran a stop sign at approximately 45 miles per hour. Plaintiff’s vehicle sustained approximately $12,000.00 in property damage. Plaintiff was taken by ambulance to Advent Health Altamonte Springs Plaintiff sustained multiple compression fractures of his cervical spine. Plaintiff had 3 surgeries over a course of two years.
Case Outcome
A settlement was reached with the at-fault driver and the owner of the vehicle totaling $3,785,000.00.
Why Reporting a Drunk Driver Matters
Driving under the influence is not only illegal—it’s deadly. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), alcohol-impaired drivers are responsible for hundreds of fatalities and serious injuries in the state each year.
Reporting a drunk driver can:
- Prevent a crash before it happens
- Protect innocent lives, including pedestrians and passengers
- Assist law enforcement in enforcing DUI laws and saving lives
Common Signs of a Drunk Driver
Not sure what to look for? Here are typical behaviors that may indicate a driver is under the influence:
- Swerving between lanes or driving off-road
- Tailgating or making wide turns
- Sudden or erratic braking
- Driving too slowly or too fast
- Ignoring traffic lights or stop signs
- Nearly hitting objects, curbs, or other vehicles
- Driving without headlights at night
If you observe one or more of these signs, stay alert and take action safely.
Step-by-Step: How to Report a Drunk Driver in Florida
1. Prioritize Your Safety First
Do not attempt to follow, stop, or confront the suspected drunk driver. Your safety comes first—report what you see from a safe distance.
2. Call 911
If you believe someone is an immediate danger to others on the road, call 911. This is the fastest way to connect with local law enforcement.
3. Or Dial *FHP (*347) From Your Cell Phone
You can also dial *FHP (*347) from any mobile phone in Florida. This connects you directly with the Florida Highway Patrol, who are equipped to dispatch troopers statewide.
4. Be Ready With Key Details
When you report the incident, provide as much information as possible:
- Your location: City, road name, or nearby landmarks
- Direction of travel: Northbound, southbound, etc.
- Vehicle description: Make, model, color, and license plate if possible
- Behavior observed: Swerving, running lights, erratic braking, etc.
The more details you can safely give, the faster and more effectively law enforcement can act.
What NOT to Do
When reporting a drunk driver:
- ❌ Don’t attempt to stop or confront the driver
- ❌ Don’t speed or drive recklessly to “keep up”
- ❌ Don’t take photos or videos if it puts you or others in danger
Leave the enforcement to the professionals. Your role is to observe, report, and stay safe.
What Happens After You Report
Once a report is made, dispatchers will relay the information to nearby officers or state troopers. If located, the suspected driver may be:
- Pulled over for further observation
- Given a field sobriety test or breathalyzer
- Arrested if found to be impaired
Law enforcement takes DUI reports seriously. Even if the driver isn’t intoxicated, erratic behavior alone may warrant a traffic stop or wellness check.
Involved in an Accident With a Drunk Driver?
If you were injured or your vehicle was damaged in a crash involving a suspected drunk driver, follow these steps:
- Call 911 immediately and wait for law enforcement to arrive.
- Get medical attention right away, even if symptoms appear minor.
- Document the scene—photos of the damage, license plates, and surroundings can be crucial.
- Gather witness information if possible.
- File a police report and make sure it notes any signs of impairment.
- Speak to a personal injury attorney—you may be entitled to significant compensation.
Can You Remain Anonymous?
Yes. When calling *FHP or 911, you can choose to remain anonymous, though providing your name and number may help officers if they need additional information.
Final Thoughts: Help Make Florida’s Roads Safer
Reporting a drunk driver is a responsible act of public safety. Every report helps law enforcement remove dangerous drivers from the road and potentially prevents serious injury or loss of life.
Injured by a Drunk Driver? Get Legal Help Today
At Matthew R. Boren, Attorney at Law, we fight for victims of drunk driving accidents across Florida. If you or a loved one was hurt by an impaired driver, you deserve justice and full financial recovery. Having a knowledgeable car accident lawyer by your side can make all the difference in navigating the complexities of your claim and holding negligent parties accountable.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, handle the insurance companies, and fight to get you the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
