Driving demands your full attention. But what happens when your hands—and focus—aren’t on the wheel? That’s where the issue of manual distractions comes in. These seemingly small actions can have life-altering consequences, especially when they contribute to personal injury situations in Texas.
This blog breaks down manual distractions, their relationship to personal injury, and how you can stay safe and avoid legal trouble on Texas roads.
What Are Manual Distractions?
Manual distractions occur when a driver removes one or both hands from the wheel to perform another task. These tasks might seem harmless in isolation, but combined with the complexities of Texas traffic, they can lead to devastating accidents. Common examples include:
- Texting or scrolling on your phone.
- Eating or drinking.
- Reaching for items in the car, such as a phone, purse, or GPS device.
- Adjusting the radio or air conditioning.
- Grooming, like fixing your hair or applying makeup.
While these actions might only last a few seconds, they significantly increase the likelihood of an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that taking your eyes off the road for five seconds while driving at 55 mph is like traveling the length of a football field blindfolded.
Legal Implications of Manual Distractions in Texas
Texas takes distracted driving seriously, with laws in place to discourage actions that pull your attention from the road.
Relevant Laws & Penalties
- Ban on Texting While Driving: Texas law prohibits reading, writing, or sending electronic messages while driving. Violators can face fines ranging from $25 to $200.
- City-specific Laws: Many Texas cities implement stricter ordinances against cell phone use that go beyond state laws.
- Criminal Charges: If manual distractions lead to an accident causing injury or death, drivers may face criminal negligence charges, which come with severe penalties.
Personal Injury Considerations
If you’re involved in a car accident caused by another driver’s manual distraction, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Proving the distraction played a role in the crash can be key in such cases, often with evidence like phone records or witness testimonies.
The Dangers of Manual Distractions on Texas Roads
Manual distractions are more than just risky—they’re deadly. Consider these statistics and examples to drive the point home:
- Texas Crash Statistics: Distracted driving contributed to over 80,000 crashes in Texas in 2021 alone, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
- Case Study: A driver in Dallas caused a multi-car pileup while attempting to retrieve a dropped phone. The incident resulted in multiple injuries and significant property damage.
These numbers and examples serve as a reminder that even a momentary lapse in attention can have permanent consequences.
Practical Tips to Minimize Manual Distractions
Staying safe on Texas roads begins with proactive steps to minimize distractions. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Prepare Before You Drive:
- Set your GPS, adjust your seat, and pick your playlist before heading out.
- Store frequently used items within reach to avoid fumbling mid-drive.
- Use Technology Wisely:
- Enable “Do Not Disturb” mode on your phone. Many smartphones have built-in features to silence notifications while driving.
- Invest in hands-free devices for necessary calls.
- Avoid Multitasking:
- Never eat, groom, or perform other activities while driving.
- If it absolutely can’t wait, pull over to a safe location.
- Spread Awareness:
- Educate family members and friends about the dangers of distracted driving.
Resources & Technologies for Safer Driving
Luckily, there are tools and resources available to help Texas residents stay focused and safe:
- Apps like DriveSafe.ly or AT&T DriveMode can block notifications to prevent phone-related distractions.
- Vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) can alert you when you’re veering out of your lane due to inattention.
- Programs from TXDOT, like “Talk. Text. Crash.” educate the public on the devastating effects of distracted driving.
Stay Proactive and Save Lives
Manual distractions may seem minor, but their impact on Texas roads is anything but small. Thousands of accidents and injuries occur yearly simply because hands—and focus—weren’t on the wheel.
Taking steps to minimize distractions not only protects you but also keeps other drivers and pedestrians safe. Stay informed, practice safe driving habits, and encourage others to do the same.
If you’ve been involved in an accident due to someone else’s distracted driving, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. Together, we can create safer roads for everyone.
