When a person is behind the wheel, his or her main priority is the safe operation of the vehicle. This means that each person should solely focus on the task at hand, but unfortunately, many drivers do not understand the importance of this. In fact, distraction is an increasing safety concern as it is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Texas and across the country. Even a few seconds of distraction can have devastating consequences.
Distracted driving can include a range of actions, such as texting, talking on the phone, talking with a passenger and more. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, as many as one in six motor vehicle crashes were the result of distracted driving. Every year, hundreds of people die in distraction-related accidents and thousands suffer injuries. It is a major problem, and it is completely preventable.
Understanding the problem of distraction
Any type of distraction can have devastating consequences. Sending just one text, scrolling social media for a few seconds, taking a phone call, adjusting the radio and much more can take the attention and focus of the driver. In Texas, it is illegal to text while driving, as well as read a text or send a text. This means that drivers can face steep fines and other penalties for engaging in this type of distracted driving. Drivers can easily avoid distracted driving with the following:
- Make it a goal to always give driving your full attention.
- Put the phone away or turn it off while driving.
- Tell friends and family that you will not be taking calls or responding to texts while driving.
- If a call or text is necessary, pull off the road to do so.
Each driver is responsible for the choices he or she makes while behind the wheel, particularly the ones that result in the injury or death of another person.
What can you do after a distracted driving accident?
If you suffered injuries in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you do not have to suffer through the aftermath alone. It is possible that you have grounds to pursue legal action against the responsible party. A civil claim may provide you with the opportunity to seek recourse and appropriate compensation for your accident-related losses and other damages. An assessment of your potential claim could provide insight into the legal options available to you.