Yes, texting and driving is illegal everywhere in Texas. Some cities ban the cellphone use while driving. The state of Texas has implemented a law that prohibits the use of wireless communication devices for electronic messaging while operating a motor vehicle. This includes texting, emailing, and instant messaging.
The Texas texting and driving law aims to reduce distracted driving and improve road safety by discouraging drivers from engaging in activities that take their attention away from the road. Violating the texting and driving law in Texas can result in fines and penalties, and repeat offenders may face more severe consequences.
If you are involved in texting and driving accident in Texas, an experienced car accident attorney may guide you. They may prepare defense strategy that may help to reduce or dismissal of your charges. With their expertise, they will do thorough investigation, have knowledge about the Texas laws, and fight for your rights.
Is All Cell Phone Behind The Wheel Prohibited In Texas
No, using cell phones while driving is not completely prohibited in Texas. While texting and driving are specifically illegal, the use of handheld cell phones for other purposes is allowed for adult drivers. However, there are restrictions for certain drivers according to the cell phone law in Texas.
What Are The Limitations of Texas Handheld Device Laws While Driving
The handheld device laws in Texas have limitations that drivers should be aware of. Some of the limitations are
- Texting and Driving Ban: The law prohibits sending or receiving electronic messages while operating a motor vehicle. This includes texting, emailing, and instant messaging. However, other uses of handheld devices, such as making phone calls or using GPS, are allowed.
- Exceptions for Emergencies: The law allows drivers to use handheld devices in case of emergencies, such as reporting a crime, reporting a traffic accident, or requesting emergency assistance.
- School Bus Drivers: School bus drivers are subject to stricter regulations and are generally prohibited from using handheld devices while driving, even for making or receiving calls.
- Novice Drivers: Drivers under 18, also known as novice drivers, are not allowed to use handheld devices at all while driving, except in case of emergencies.
- Hands-Free Devices: While the use of handheld devices is restricted, drivers are permitted to use hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth-enabled systems or voice-activated features, to make or receive calls.
Is Texting While Driving a Serious Threat To Road Safety
Yes, texting while driving is widely recognized as a serious threat to road safety. It significantly increases the risk of accidents and endangers the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Some reasons why texting while driving is considered dangerous are as follows
- Distracted Driving: Texting requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention, causing the driver to divert their focus from the road. This distraction can significantly impair their ability to react to traffic situations, hazards, or sudden changes on the road.
- Slowed Reaction Time: Texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time, as they are mentally engaged in composing or reading a message rather than anticipating and responding to road conditions.
- Reduced Awareness: Texting takes the driver’s eyes off the road, leading to decreased situational awareness. This means they may fail to notice important cues, such as traffic signs, signals, or other vehicles, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
- Increased Crash Risk: Research has shown that texting while driving can increase the risk of a crash several times. The combination of distraction, decreased reaction time and reduced awareness greatly heightens the chances of a collision.
- Legal Consequences: Texting while driving is against the law in many jurisdictions. Violating these laws can result in fines, penalties, increased insurance rates, license suspension, and even criminal charges in severe cases.
Penalties For Texting And Driving In Texas
Texting and driving in Texas is a misdemeanor. It means that the accused will have a criminal record. First-time offenders who violate the law will be issued a fine ranging from $25 to $99. For repeated offenders, a fine of $200 can be issued.
In case, a severe injury has been caused to another person owing to texting and driving, the at-fault party will be fined up to $4,000 with a jail time of 1 year. If someone is charged with vehicular manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide, the penalties may involve steeper fines and longer jail time.
What Is The Statute Of Limitation For An Unsafe Lane Change In Texas
The statute of limitations in Texas for unsafe lane change is four years. This means that if you are injured in a car accident caused by a lane change, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you do not file a lawsuit within four years, you will be barred from recovering any damages from the driver who caused the accident.
There are a few exceptions to the four-year statute of limitations for lane change accidents. For example, if the driver who caused the accident was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the statute of limitations is extended to two years.
Is Speeding Illegal In Texas
Yes, speeding is illegal in Texas. According to the speeding laws in Texas, The speed limit is set by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). It may vary depending on the type of road and the location. The penalties for unsafe speed in Texas vary depending on the severity of the violation.
For example, a first offense of speeding 10 mph over the limit is punishable by a fine of up to $200. A second offense of speeding 15 mph over the limit is punishable by a fine of up to $500 or even jail time.
If caught speeding in Texas, you may also be issued a citation for reckless driving. Reckless driving is a more serious offense than speeding and can result in a fine of up to $200 or jail time of up to 30 days.
What Are The Consequences Of Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving accidents can have severe consequences, both for the individuals involved and society. Some of the potential consequences of distracted driving accidents include
- Personal Injury Distracted driving accidents can cause serious injuries to drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma, permanent disabilities, or even fatalities.
- Loss of Life Distracted driving accidents can result in tragic loss of life. Lives are forever altered, and families and communities are left to cope with the emotional and psychological impact of losing a loved one.
- Property Damage Accidents caused by distracted driving can lead to significant property damage, including damage to vehicles, buildings, infrastructure, and personal belongings. Repairing or replacing damaged property can be costly and time-consuming.
- Emotional and Psychological Impact Distracted driving accidents can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects on those involved. Survivors may experience trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
How Much Compensation Can You Pursue In Distracted Driving Accidents
The compensation that can be pursued in distracted driving accidents can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the severity of injuries, the impact on the victim’s life, and the specific circumstances of the accident. Some types of compensation that can be pursued are
- Medical Expenses: Compensation can cover current and future medical expenses related to the accident. It may include hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, therapy, and assistive devices.
- Lost Wages: If the accident results in the victim being unable to work, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and potential future loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation may be sought for physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma resulting from the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: In cases where the accident has affected the victim’s relationship with their spouse or family, compensation may be sought for the loss of companionship, support, and consortium.
How Can A Lawyer Help In A Texting And Driving Accident Case
An auto accident lawyer can help you gather evidence to support your claim, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements. The insurance company for the driver who caused the accident may try to offer you a settlement that is less than what you are entitled to.
They can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to pursue the compensation. Moreover, if the case goes to court, they can represent you and fight for your rights.