Across the state in 2014, there were 100,917 distracted-driving crashes resulting in 483 fatalities and more than 3,000 serious injuries. …
“In Texas, texting, talking and other distractions cause nearly 1 in 5 traffic crashes,” said John Barton, TxDOT deputy executive director. “Through our ‘Talk, Text, Crash’ campaign we remind drivers that talking, texting, eating or even changing the radio station while driving can lead to serious injury or death. Driving requires your full attention. Anything less jeopardizes you, your loved ones and everyone else on the road.”
Compared with 2013, distracted-driving crashes in Texas last year increased by 6 percent. Distracted-driving crashes and fatalities in Texas are highest among drivers ages 16 to 24, followed by adults over the age of 45.
According to the Texas Transportation Institute, nearly 45 percent of Texas drivers admitted to using a mobile phone while driving, even though 83 percent of them agreed that talking on mobile phones while driving is dangerous.
The “Talk, Text, Crash” campaign warns drivers to refrain from multitasking while driving. If a call or other task cannot wait, drivers are advised to safely pull over and park before shifting their focus from the road. While cell phone use is the most recognized driving distraction, the “Talk, Text, Crash” campaign reminds drivers that high-risk, behind-the-wheel activities also can include:
-Texting
-Checking email
-Eating and drinking
-Grooming
-Reading
-Programming a navigation system
-Watching a video
-Adjusting a radio, CD player or other audio device
Although cell phone use is the most easily recognized distractions, all in-vehicle distractions are unsafe and can cause crashes or fatalities. TxDOT calls on all Texans to focus on the road and wait until arriving at their destinations to conduct non-driving activities.