When driving, a person’s sole responsibility is to focus on the task at hand to arrive at a destination safely. Each driver also bears the responsibility of making sure that he or she is not needlessly endangering others along the way. One of the main ways a driver places others in danger is when he or she picks up the phone while also operating a motor vehicle.
Most distracted driving happens because of a phone. Thanks to the popularity and widespread use of smartphones, there are plenty of distractions tempting a driver. To fight distracted driving and encourage safety, many states have passed laws prohibiting texting, talking on the phone and even holding a phone while driving. Despite sobering statistics about distracted driving in Texas, it seems unlikely that lawmakers will pass similar legislation anytime soon.
A growing safety concern
Lawmakers agree that distracted driving in the state is a problem. It is difficult to argue with the statistics that indicate that phone use is a significant public safety concern. Even with hearings on the subject, it seems unlikely that changes will happen soon. Consider the following:
- Instead of passing new distracted driving laws, the state may consider allocating funds to install rumble strips and cable barriers to alert drivers when they are not maintaining their lane.
- Texas is the leading state in the country for roadway deaths, and it is reasonable to assume many of these are because of distraction.
- Texas laws do prohibit texting and driving, but it does not ban handheld use of a phone.
Regardless of the laws that are in place or should be put into place by lawmakers, each person is responsible for the choices he or she makes behind the wheel. Distracted driving is reckless and completely unnecessary, and those who cause others harm because of this dangerous behavior can be held to account for their actions through the civil justice system.
What can you do?
If you are the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver, you have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. You do not have to suffer alone, and you may seek recompense for your pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, and property damage.
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but you do not have to walk through it alone. An assessment of your case can help you understand what options are available to you and where you should begin.