Distracted driving is not an uncommon sight in Texas, as almost one-fifth of all car accidents in Texas involved a distracted driver in 2019. Even though Texas has prohibited reading, writing, and sending electronic messages on a mobile device while driving since September 2017, thousands of Texans are still injured and even killed every year in distracted driving accidents. When a driver engages in any activity that takes their attention away from the road while they are driving, they become a distracted driver. There are many different types of distractions, all of which reduce the amount of time a driver has to react to sudden changes ahead and to the sides of their vehicle. To help prevent distracted driving, and decrease the chances of getting into an accident, follow these eight driving safety tips.
- Avoid temptation: Do not talk or text on your cell phone while driving. Before starting your trip, turn off your phone and keep it off until you reach your destination. The National Safety Council reported that hands-free phones are as much of a distraction as handheld phones. Even talking on the phone can take your attention away from the road. Keeping your cell phone out of sight – in a glove box or center console – will keep your mind off of it and on the road.
- Pull over to text and call: If you have to make a call or respond to a text, take the time to pull over to a safe and legal place. In Texas, it is illegal to text while driving; and, some Texas cities have stricter laws in place that prevent handheld use of a mobile device while driving. While on the road, the only time you should use a cell phone is in case of emergency.
- Plan your route: Waiting until you are already driving to program your GPS takes your eyes off the road. Before heading to your next destination, program your navigation device with voice directions so you are able to follow along without excessive distractions. Checking the route in advance for future traffic concerns, unfamiliar roads, and potential construction will help keep your eyes on the road since you will know what to expect.
- Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking: Texans are busier than ever and people can be seen eating, drinking, and smoking in their cars while driving. While these actions may seem like they can save time, they actually take a driver’s attention away from driving. Dropping a french fry or spilling a drink can quickly take your hands off the wheel and cause you to swerve. Wait to eat or drink until your car is parked in a safe area.
- Never drive drowsy: Drivers who are fatigued and find themselves starting to fall asleep at the wheel increase their risk of getting into a crash by four times. This is not an uncommon situation to find yourself in, as the AAA Traffic Safety Foundation reported that 37 percent of drivers admitted to falling asleep at the wheel. If you start to feel tired while driving, pull over and find a safe spot to take a quick nap. Never continue driving on the road while drowsy.
- Do not tailgate: In good weather, driving school professionals recommend keeping three to four car lengths between you and the vehicle ahead of you. This gives you plenty of time to react to sudden stops, swerving cars, and cars that do not stop at red lights. In inclement weather, roads can become slick and keeping between five to six car lengths between you and the car in front of you is recommended.
- Always stay vigilant: Part of being a safe driver is being aware of your surroundings at all times while in your vehicle. Make a full-mirror sweep with your eyes about every five minutes to ensure you know what vehicles, pedestrians, and hazards are around you at all times. Even with new blind-spot technology and back-up cameras, using your mirrors and eyes will give you the best perspective of your surroundings.
- Limit passenger distractions: Having passengers in the car can cause significant distractions while you are driving. Talking with other passengers is considered a cognitive distraction, because even though your eyes are on the road, your mind is distracted by the conversation. Try to avoid stressful or emotional conversations with passengers in the car. Ask passengers to help alert you to dangers you may not see and ask them not to be too loud or distracting while you are driving.
South Texas Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys
Being in a distracted driving accident can be complicated and stressful. By selecting experienced legal representation, you won’t have to worry about your next steps because you will have the guidance and support of a trustworthy personal injury attorney. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident, contact the Weslaco car accident lawyers at Ezequiel Reyna, Jr. Law Office today to discuss your case. There is limited time to act following a car accident in Texas, so don’t delay.
