Jason Stephens | March 21, 2023 | Texas Law
Just about every driver is taught the dangers of using a phone while driving. Because cell phone use can be so dangerous, many states have enacted laws that make it illegal to use a cell phone while operating a vehicle.
Using a cell phone behind the wheel is not only risky for the driver, but also for others they share the road with. Texas law is clear on phone use while driving.
Using a Cellphone While Driving — Is It Legal in Texas?
The State of Texas recognizes how dangerous it is to use a cell phone while driving. Therefore, there are laws regarding phone use while operating a vehicle. While talking on the phone is not illegal in every city, texting while driving is.
Texas laws make it illegal to do any of the following:
- Send electronic messages, including texts and emails, while driving
- Use a cell phone in the car during the first six months of having a learner’s permit
- Use a handheld device if you’re under 18
- Use any handheld device in a school zone
- Use a cell phone if you’re a school bus driver transporting children
Additionally, it is still illegal to text and drive even if you’re stopped at a red light. Although the vehicle is temporarily stopped, you are still considered to be operating the vehicle.
Specific laws can vary slightly from city to city in Texas, so it is important to understand the laws in your area. Using a phone while driving can result in legal repercussions, but it could also endanger the cell phone user and others on the road.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Many states adopted laws banning cellphone use while driving because of the many issues it can cause. Among these problems, phone use can distract drivers while driving.
Distracted driving refers to operating a vehicle while not giving the task at hand your full attention. Typically, distracted driving encompasses three categories — visual distractions, manual distractions, and cognitive distractions. Cell phone use while driving can actually fall under all three.
Visual distractions take your eyes off the road while driving. Texting and driving is the most common example of visual distraction. If you’re driving at 55 mph and take your eyes off the road for just five seconds, that’s the equivalent of driving an entire football field with your eyes closed. Just a few seconds can change everything.
A manual distraction takes your hands off the steering wheel while operating a vehicle. Holding a cell phone in your hand and using it to type out a text or an email, change the song, or surf social media can keep at least one hand off the wheel for an extended period of time.
Cognitive distractions cause your mind to wander, so you’re not paying attention to the road. Talking on the phone or thinking about what you’re writing in a text can easily keep your mind somewhere other than the road.
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents on the road today. Accidents caused by distracted driving happen daily, resulting in injuries and death. In fact, an average of nine people are killed every day due to distracted driving.
If You’re Involved in a Distracted Driving Accident, Seek Legal Help
While phone use is illegal while driving, there is no shortage of Texans who break the law daily. If you experience a collision caused by a distracted driver, you may have the opportunity to pursue justice and compensation for your resulting losses and injuries.
A personal injury lawyer in Texas can provide legal assistance and guidance to help you reach the most favorable result for your case.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth car accident lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000