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The Lone Star State’s Biggest Driving Distraction: Why Texting and Driving Don’t Mix

Written by

Rodney Crawford

in

Intro

Your phone buzzes. It’s just one quick text — you glance down for a second. No big deal, right? Wrong.

In Texas, texting while driving isn’t just illegal — it’s one of the leading causes of preventable crashes on our roads. Even a moment’s distraction can change lives forever. In this article, we’ll cover the laws, science, and smart alternatives to texting behind the wheel.

1. Texas Texting and Driving Laws

As of September 1, 2017, texting while driving is prohibited statewide.

  • First offense: Up to $99 fine
  • Repeat offense: Up to $200 fine
  • In school zones: Zero tolerance — no handheld device use at all

Local ordinances may impose even stricter hands-free rules.

2. The Science of Distraction

Texting behind the wheel combines three types of distraction:

  1. Visual — eyes off the road
  2. Manual — hands off the wheel
  3. Cognitive — mind off driving

Studies show it takes an average of five seconds to read or send a text. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field — blind.

3. The Texas Toll

According to TxDOT, distracted driving contributed to over 100,000 crashes in a single year, resulting in thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths.

📖 Read more: Why Your Brain Can’t Drive and Text at the Same Time: The Science of Distracted Driving

4. Safer Alternatives

  • Use hands-free voice commands
  • Set your phone to “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode
  • Pull over safely before using your phone
  • Ask a passenger to handle texts or calls

5. Building Better Habits

Breaking the habit starts with small steps:

  • Keep your phone out of reach while driving
  • Silence notifications before starting the car
  • Hold yourself accountable — and encourage friends and family to do the same

Final Thoughts

Texting while driving is never worth the risk. The text can wait. Your life — and the lives of others — can’t be replaced.

At Drive Smart Driving School, we teach safe driving practices that reduce distractions and improve reaction times.

🚦 Take the first step toward safer driving. Enroll in our Texas driver’s ed course today and learn how to protect yourself and others on the road.

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