Tip:
When it comes to self defense, it is best to avoid any potential encounter. Unfortunately many people have anger triggers that cause them to involve themselves in unnecessary, potentially violent encounters. Some people are triggered to anger by other drivers ability (or inability) on the road. Some are triggered by the loudmouth drunk. Some are triggered by protesters political views. What we need to remember is that unless the attack is a lethal threat, we probably do not need to get involved.
Benefits and Risk:
What benefit do we see from getting involved in something that is not a direct aggression? What good outcomes could occur? What negative results could you encounter? If you involve yourself in an incident, how can you know the other person's state of mind or their ability to harm us? What are the risks? How can you know if that person has friends that will pitch in if you get involved? How will a jury see a sober person vs. an impaired person?
If you use the standard that nobody needs force until they use force (or force is imminent), you may find yourself avoiding dangerous encounters, thus saving you the potential stress, risk and financial burden or having to defend yourself both in the encounter and in court.