Every day on Texas roads, distracted drivers threaten your safety and the safety of others. The consequences can be devastating when drivers take their attention off the road, even for a few seconds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives across the United States in 2021.
The Texas Department of Transportation reports that in 2022, distracted driving crashes in the Lone Star State killed 431 people and injured thousands more. These aren’t just statistics – they represent real lives and families forever changed by preventable accidents.
So many distractions
Distracted driving occurs when you engage in any activity that diverts your attention from the primary task of driving. NHTSA categorizes distractions into three main types:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road (looking at GPS, checking children in the backseat, rubbernecking at accidents)
- Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel (eating, adjusting the radio, reaching for items)
- Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving (talking on the phone, daydreaming, driving while upset or tired)
Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it combines all three types of distractions.
Drivers with an increased risk of being distracted
Young drivers are more likely to be involved in distraction-related crashes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that drivers under 20 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. Teen drivers are three times more likely than older drivers to be involved in a distracted driving crash.
Texas has implemented several programs to combat this problem. Since 2017, Texas law has prohibited texting while driving. The “Talk, Text, Crash” campaign by TxDOT raises awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Additionally, Texas requires new drivers to complete distracted driving education as part of their driver’s training.
If a distracted motorist injures you, consult an experienced car accident attorney who can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages. Texas law allows victims to pursue claims against drivers who cause accidents through negligent behaviors like distracted driving. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the often complex process of documenting your injuries and dealing with insurance companies.