Distracted driving deaths increased 17% in 2021 compared to 2020, in which 431 lives were lost and 2,934 people were seriously injured. Because of the increase in the statistics, TxDOT is conducting its annual Talk. Text. Crash. campaign during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April. They are urging Texans to keep their heads up and phones down and just focus on driving.

According to TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams, “Texans are killed each year simply because someone was distracted by their phone, radio, navigation system, eating or drinking, or even by others in the car. When your focus isn’t on driving, you’re putting yourself, your passengers and everyone else on the road at risk.” Distracted driving is not only dangerous, but it is also a crime in Texas. Since September 1, 2017, it has been illegal to read, write, or send a text message while driving. Violators can face a fine up to $200.

TxDOT offers many tips to prevent distracted driving that include: giving your driving your full attention, pulling off the road entirely and coming to a complete stop before talking or texting on your phone, putting your phone away or turning it off while driving, and telling friends, family and coworkers that you cannot respond while driving. The Talk. Text. Crash. campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, which is a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices behind the wheel. November 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on Texas roadways. By paying attention, Texans can commit to driving safely to help end the streak of daily deaths on Texas roadways.

Sorrels Law represents individuals and business who have been injured by the wrongful acts of others. Whether it involves a physical injury, personal injury, wrongful death, product failure, fire, explosion, medical malpractice, breach of contract, fraud, business theft or business disputes, call the lawyers at Sorrels Law at 713-496-1100. Or email at Help@SorrelsLaw.com. The Sorrels Law website address is www.SorrelsLaw.com.