Distracted driving is an increasing danger on our highways, endangering everyone who uses them. Many drivers spend their time behind the wheel multitasking—eating, playing with the radio, daydreaming, or on the phone. All it takes for these drivers is a moment’s distraction, like a dropped French fry or a text alert, and they have no idea that the light at the intersection has turned red.
Did you know? In 2021, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving claimed over 3,000 lives in the United States. These deaths represented 8.2% of all traffic fatalities recorded that year.
Distracted driving is a growing concern on our roads. With the proliferation of smartphones and in-car technology, drivers face more potential distractions than ever before. This section will explore the various types of distractions, their impact on driving safety, and strategies to stay focused behind the wheel.
Understanding Distracted Driving
Types of Distractions
Driving distractions fall into three main categories:
Taking your mind off driving (like daydreaming or getting lost in a conversation)
Each of these distractions can be dangerous on their own, but when combined—like when a driver texts—they significantly increase the risk of an accident.
Reading a text takes about 5 seconds. At highway speeds, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed!
Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is risky because it slows down your reaction time. For instance, if you’re looking at your phone, even just for a second, you might not see a car stopping in front of you, a pedestrian crossing, or an unexpected obstacle in the road.
The potential consequences of distracted driving are severe:
- Collisions—The most obvious and devastating consequence, often resulting in injuries or fatalities
- Injuries—Even minor collisions can lead to serious injuries, with lasting physical and emotional effects
- Legal Penalties—Distracted driving laws are in place to protect everyone on the road, and violations can result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time
Distracted driving is responsible for thousands of accidents each year. These crashes often result in injuries, fatalities, and serious legal trouble. The emotional and financial impacts can be devastating, not just for you but for others involved.
Distracted Driving Laws
Texas has enacted several laws to combat the dangers of distracted driving:
- Statewide Ban on Texting While Driving—Since September 1, 2017, it has been illegal to read, write, or send a text while driving in Texas. Violators can face fines of up to $200
- School Zones—Using any handheld device while driving in a school zone is illegal. This law aims to protect children and reduce distractions in areas where kids are likely to be present
- School Bus Drivers—School bus drivers are prohibited from using cellphones while driving if children are present
- Restrictions for Young Drivers—Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using handheld devices while driving. Additionally, drivers with learner’s permits are not allowed to use cellphones in the first six months of driving
In addition, there are many Texas cities and towns that have ordinances of their own, many with consequences more severe than the ones listed above. Keep yourself safe from these penalties, put down your coffee cup, cheeseburger, and phone and just focus on driving whenever you are driving!
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Preventing Distracted Driving
The good news is that distracted driving is entirely preventable. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and minimize distractions:
Nothing is more important than your safety and the safety of others on the road. By eliminating distractions, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a collision.
Choose Safety Over Distractions
Distracted driving is a preventable epidemic on our roads. Remember, driving deserves your full attention. No text or call is worth a life. Stay focused when you’re behind the wheel, and encourage others to do the same.
