TX legislators make another attempt to ban texting while driving

March 26, 2013

TX legislators make another attempt to ban texting while driving

Article provided by Hoffman Kaliser & Messina, P.C.
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Chances are, if you haven't personally been guilty of this behavior, you know someone who has -- texting while behind the wheel. Despite nationwide public awareness campaigns and numerous studies detailing the dangers of such behavior, many people continue to pay attention to their cellphones when they should be focusing on the road.

Texting while driving is a dangerous form of distraction, as it occupies the driver's hands, eyes and thoughts. According to one study conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech, drivers who text while behind the wheel are 23 times more likely to be involved in an auto accident than non-distracted drivers.

Consequently, many states have banned texting while driving for all motorists. Unfortunately, Texas has yet to join the pack in prohibiting this hazardous conduct. In 2011, a bill was passed that would have prohibited such behavior, but Governor Perry vetoed the bill.

Recently, another texting ban bill was introduced in the Texas legislature. The bill is referred to as the Alex Brown Memorial Act, after a teenager who was killed in a distracted driving accident.

Current distracted driving laws in Texas

While a statewide ban has yet to be passed, motorists in Arlington are currently prohibited from texting while on the road. According to the local NBC news affiliate, law enforcement officers issued 65 tickets for texting while driving during the last 15 months. Each ticket result in a fine of at least $200.

There are also a number of distracted driving laws in Texas aimed at particular demographics. For instance, both bus drivers and novice drivers are prohibited from texting while driving. Bus and novice drivers in Texas are also prohibited from using cellphones of any type -- including those with hands-free technology -- when driving.

All drivers in Texas are also prohibited from using handheld cellphones while driving in school zones.

These laws are all aimed at keeping Texas roadways safe and preventing distracted driving collisions. In 2011 alone, over 3,330 people diedin distracted driving accidents across the country. In addition, another 387,000 people in the U.S. suffered personal injuries as a result of a crash caused by a distracted driver that year.

When someone is injured in a distracted driving accident, he or she may be entitled to compensation for the harm caused. If you have been involved in such an accident, consulting with a skilled, Texas personal injury attorney will ensure your rights are protected.