Distracted Driving Car Accidents in Houston

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts the motorist’s attention, eyes, or hands from safely operating the vehicle. While there are various types of distraction, texting while behind the wheel is among the most hazardous.

Distractions are responsible for as many crashes as drinking and driving nationwide. Speak to a qualified car accident attorney for information about distracted driving car accidents in Houston.

The Types of Distractions and Severe Risks

Three primary types of distractions divert the driver from safely operating their vehicle, causing thousands of collisions each year.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions cause motorist to take their eyes off the roadway and can lead to crashes with catastrophic consequences within seconds. Examples include reading or writing emails, texting, adjusting the navigation system, or reading signs.

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions are any actions that require the motorist to remove one or both hands from the steering wheel, including reaching for objects, adjusting temperature or radio controls, or eating. Keeping both hands on the steering wheel to remain alert and ready to take necessary action is essential for safe driving.

Cognitive Distractions

Daydreaming, engaging in emotionally charged conversations, or driving while angry or upset are all examples of cognitive distractions. They impair mental focus and decision-making abilities, which affect a person’s ability to drive safely. During a consultation, an attorney could answer questions about distracted driving vehicle collisions in Houston.

Risks Associated with Distractions

Some risks associated with distractions include:

• Impaired reaction times, making it more difficult to respond and avoid crashes as necessary
• Diversion of the motorist’s attention from the road, making it more likely they fail to recognize risks and react quickly
• Impaired judgment and decision-making, leading to risky maneuvers or missing opportunities to avoid crashes
• Increased risk of crashes caused by losing control of the vehicle

Distracted motorists are more likely to make errors and cause avoidable accidents because of reduced attention, impaired judgment, delayed reactions, and loss of vehicle control.

Distracted Driving Laws

State laws restrict drivers from completing specific actions with cell phones while operating vehicles. State regulations prohibit a driver from sending, receiving, or creating text messages, emails, or any written communication until they find a safe location and pull off the road to turn off their car. New drivers may not use a smartphone for any purpose until they have had their learner’s permit for six months.  No motorist under 18 may use any device, including those with the option for hands-free calls or message creation.

Driver distractions, particularly those involving cell phones, are a hazard and place the driver and everyone around them at severe and unnecessary risk of harm. Failing to adhere to the state laws will result in penalties, including steep fines, suspension or revocation of driver’s licenses, and civil liability for collisions.  A lawyer in Houston knowledgeable about distracted driving car crashes could answer questions about the applicable statutes and recovery claims process.

Speak to an Attorney in Houston About Distracted Driving Car Accidents

Distractions, including conversations with other people in the car, changing the radio station, or using an electronic communication device, significantly increase the risk of accidents.

If you sustain harm because of another driver’s negligence, you must hold them responsible. Call our office to speak with a lawyer and get more information about distracted driving car accidents in Houston.