Car accidents caused by distracted driving, particularly from cell phone use, have become a major concern in Texas. In today’s world, it’s common for drivers to engage with their phones while behind the wheel, whether they’re texting, browsing the internet, or talking on the phone. Unfortunately, these distractions can have serious consequences, leading to accidents that cause injury, property damage, and even death. If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Texas, the experienced car accident lawyers at Loncar Lyon Jenkins can help you understand your rights and seek justice for the harm you’ve suffered.
Why Is Cell Phone Use While Driving Dangerous?
Cell phone use while driving presents several dangers that contribute to accidents. These include:
Distracts the Driver Visually
Using a phone requires the driver to look away from the road, whether they’re reading a text message, checking social media, or navigating via GPS. Even a few seconds of distraction can result in a collision.
Reading or Sending Texts
Reading or typing a text message takes the driver’s eyes off the road and requires their hands to leave the steering wheel, which makes driving safely impossible for those brief moments.
Browsing the Internet
Browsing the web or checking emails can be even more engaging than texting, further reducing a driver’s focus and reaction time.
Diverts Attention Mentally
Even hands-free communication, such as talking on the phone, diverts a driver’s mental attention from the task of driving. Conversations require cognitive processing, which can reduce focus on the road and traffic conditions.
Conversations, Even Hands-Free
While hands-free devices are less physically distracting, they still take away mental focus, especially if the conversation becomes more involved or emotionally charged.
Planning Texts or Emails
Even if the driver is not texting or emailing at the moment, planning what to write or respond to can still lead to cognitive distraction that impairs decision-making and reaction times.
Leads to Slower Reaction Times
When a driver is distracted by their phone, their ability to react to sudden changes in traffic, such as stopping or slowing for a red light, is significantly delayed.
Delay in Braking
Cell phone use can also cause delays in braking, increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions or failure to stop at stop signs and traffic signals.
Missed Traffic Signals
A distracted driver may miss traffic signals or fail to notice changes in the road conditions, leading to dangerous situations.
What Laws Combat Cell Phone Use While Driving?
In Texas, several laws aim to reduce distracted driving by regulating cell phone use:
Statewide Texting and Driving Ban
Texas has a statewide ban on texting while driving. Drivers are prohibited from reading, writing, or sending text messages while behind the wheel.
Prohibits Reading, Writing, or Sending Texts
Not only is texting while driving banned, but reading or sending texts also falls under this restriction.
Specific Cities with Hands-Free Laws
Some Texas cities, such as Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso, have additional hands-free driving laws. These cities require drivers to use hands-free devices when talking on the phone while driving.
How Do Laws Impact Car Accident Rates?
The implementation of distracted driving laws has been shown to have a positive impact on accident rates in Texas and nationwide, holding negligent drivers accountable, while deterring others from participating in distracted driving behavior.
Reduction in Overall Accident Rates
Several studies have demonstrated a decrease in accidents after texting and driving bans are enacted, suggesting that distracted driving laws have a direct effect on reducing the number of collisions.
Studies and Statistics
Research on distracted driving shows that areas with strict enforcement of texting bans and hands-free laws experience fewer accidents, fatalities, and injuries related to cell phone use.
Increase in Public Awareness
Laws also serve to raise public awareness of the dangers of distracted driving. The more drivers understand the risks, the more likely they are to adopt safer driving habits.
Educational Campaigns and Signage
Alongside legislation, educational campaigns and road signs reminding drivers about the dangers of distracted driving have been critical in reducing cell phone-related accidents.
Penalties for Violating These Laws in Texas
Texas law imposes penalties for violating distracted driving laws, which can vary depending on the severity of the offense.
Fines and Fees
If caught texting while driving, offenders may face fines of up to $200 for a first offense. The fines may increase for subsequent offenses.
Up to $200 for First Offenses
The fine for a first-time violation of the texting while driving law is typically up to $200.
Higher for Repeat Offenses or Accidents
Fines can be much higher if the violation leads to an accident, or if the driver has previous offenses on record.
Potential Jail Time
In cases where distracted driving leads to serious injury or death, offenders may face more severe penalties, including jail time.
If Cell Phone Use Results in Serious Injury or Death
When a distracted driver causes a serious accident or fatality, they could be charged with more severe crimes, which may include vehicular manslaughter or reckless driving.
Preventing Cell Phone-Related Car Accidents
There are several ways drivers can help prevent accidents caused by distracted driving:
Use of Hands-Free Devices
Hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth headsets and in-car systems like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allow drivers to use their phones safely while keeping their hands on the wheel.
Bluetooth Headsets
Using a Bluetooth headset for calls can help minimize distractions while driving, as it allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
In-Car Systems Like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Many modern vehicles are equipped with systems that integrate smartphones into the car’s dashboard, allowing for safer voice-activated texting, calling, and navigation.
Apps That Limit Phone Functionality
Certain apps can block text messages, calls, and social media notifications while driving, helping to reduce distractions and improve safety.
Do Not Disturb While Driving Feature
Both Android and iOS devices offer a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature, which automatically silences incoming notifications and alerts the driver’s contacts that they are on the road.
Steps If Involved in a Cell Phone-Related Accident
If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, it’s important to follow certain steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services
First and foremost, check for injuries and call emergency services immediately. Prompt medical attention is crucial, even if injuries appear minor at first.
Assess Immediate Dangers
Move to a safe location if possible, and assess any immediate dangers such as traffic hazards or leaking fuel.
Provide First Aid If Trained
If you are trained in first aid, offer help to anyone who may need it while waiting for emergency personnel to arrive.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
It’s important to exchange insurance details and contact information with the other driver involved in the accident. Make sure to get their name, phone number, insurance policy number, and driver’s license information.
Report the Accident to the Police
In Texas, accidents that cause injury or significant property damage must be reported to the police. This is not only a legal requirement, but it is also necessary for filing insurance claims.
Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer
Once the immediate aftermath of the accident is handled, it’s wise to consult with an auto accident attorney to discuss your options. A car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, assist with insurance claims, and guide you through the litigation process if needed.
Let Us Fight for You – Schedule a Free Consultation Today!
If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, the auto accident attorneys at Loncar Lyon Jenkins are here to help. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve for the injuries and damages you’ve suffered. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
