There are many states that have laws which prohibit a driver on a cell phone while operating a vehicle-or at least restrict their use by mandating hands free devices. In Texas, the only law that applies is House Bill 339. This law bans teen drivers from using cell phones and text messaging devices; the other part of this law prohibits drivers from using handheld cell phones in school crossing zones. However, lawmakers are expected to file several bills seeking to prohibit or limit cell phone use while driving when the 2011 Texas Legislative session starts in January.
I think that mandating hands free devices is great and its somewhat east to enforce. If you have a phone up to your ear-you are busted! I also think texting while driving should be banned, but I also realize that such law will be difficult, if not impossible, to enforce.
I think that raising awareness is most effective way to put an end to distracted driving. This year the Anderson Law Firm promoted Teens Against Distracted Driving (TADD) including six Tarrant County High Schools. All in all there were 5,380 students who signed a pledge to not text while driving. Another good awareness program is the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has recently installed permanent signs all along the state's busy highways as part of a national campaign to prevent car accidents caused by distracted driving. These signs broadcast a variety of messages, including "Make Your Vehicle a No Phone Zone" and "Drive Now. Text Later."
In 2008, the TxDOT reported that there were 103,526 crashes caused by distracted driving and 524 deaths alone in Texas. Additionally, in the United States there were 6,000 fatalities in which drivers under the age of 20 made up for 16% of fatalities. These numbers show what the police officer wrote on the police report, so I think that the real numbers are much higher and are projected to grow as electronic devices become more popular.
15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case!
One wreck is enough! If someone's carelessness causes you to be seriously injured in a Texas Accident, you must make sure you don't make mistakes that could WRECK your own claim. Any mistakes you make could end up being very costly for you.
15 Mistakes That Will Wreck Your Texas Accident Case!