Most people are well familiar with the dangers of driving while intoxicated but driving while distracted has potential consequences that are just as dangerous. And while you may be more likely to encounter a drunk driver during certain times of the day, a distracted driver can disrupt your life at any time.
Basically, distracted driving is inattentive driving, often as a result of talking on a cell phone, texting, engaging in conversations with passengers, “zoning out” while driving (a common problem with tired drivers or drivers who travel long distances without taking adequate breaks), or paying too much attention to onboard entertainment. More here on this website
GHSA Report
The Governors Highway Safety Association (“GHSA”) released its report Distracted Driving: What Research Shows and What States Can Do. Among the findings:
Distractions affect driving performance.
Drivers frequently are distracted, perhaps as much as half the time.
Distractions are estimated to be associated with 15 to 25 percent of crashes at all levels.
Texting likely increases crash risk more than cell phone use. [1]
Based on existing research, the report urges states to:
Use low-cost engineering solutions such as edge line and centerline rumble stripes to alert motorists who may drift.
Record distracted driving in crash reports.
Evaluate other distracted driving laws and programs. [2]
The report further urges states to consider the following:
Enacting a texting ban for all drivers and a complete cell phone ban for new drivers; and/or
Enforcing all existing cell phone and texting laws. [3]
Dangers of Texting While Driving
Generally, there are three broad categories of distracted driving:
Manual – taking your hands off the wheel;
Visual – taking your eyes off the road; and
Cognitive – taking your mind off driving.
TEXTING IS ALL THREE DISTRACTIONS TYPES IN ONE. The potential dangers cannot be overstated. A text message averages 4.6 seconds; at 55 miles per hour, that’s 100 yards (the length of a football field) of driving blind![4] More on this website
Survey of Current Cell Phone and Texting Laws
Texas currently has state laws in place that restrict cell phone use in certain circumstances. The following is a brief summary of the state’s current laws:
Texas
Ban on all cell phone use (handheld and hands-free) for bus drivers
Ban on all cell phones (handheld and hands-free) for novice drivers
Ban on texting for all drivers
Ban on texting for bus drivers
Bans all drivers from using phones and text messaging in school zones[5]
Our Commitment
At our Law Office, we are dedicated to pursuing the rights of victims of distracted drivers. Towards that end, we bring a commitment to staying as current as possible on relevant authorities, including changes in the law and scientific studies on distracted driving. If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of the negligence of a distracted driver, call us today for a free consultation with a dedicated Texas auto accident lawyer.
