Texas roads have never been more dangerous. In 2023, distracted driving caused nearly one in six crashes across the state, leading to 399 deaths and almost 2,800 serious injuries. The Texas Department of Transportation continues to push awareness campaigns, but despite these efforts, distraction behind the wheel remains a deadly epidemic and a common cause of preventable car accidents.
Now, young drivers — the very people most at risk — are stepping up to fight back.
The changing face of distracted driving in Texas
For decades, drunk driving was the biggest focus of teen driver safety campaigns. But today, distracted driving is taking center stage. The problem isn’t just texting anymore — it’s touchscreens, hands-free calls, social media, and even voice-activated technology. Drivers are making life-or-death decisions in seconds, often without realizing how dangerous their behavior is.
Some of the most common crash patterns linked to distracted driving include:
- Rear-end collisions – A distracted driver fails to notice slowing traffic until it’s too late.
- Intersection accidents – Running a stop sign or red light while looking at a phone leads to devastating T-bone crashes.
- Pedestrian and cyclist injuries – Looking down for just a moment can mean missing someone crossing the street.
- High-speed freeway crashes – At 70 mph, glancing at a screen for five seconds means traveling the length of a football field without looking at the road.
These accidents are not random — they happen because drivers are making choices that put others in danger.
Teen drivers are taking a stand
With the rise of distracted driving deaths, some of the most vocal advocates for change are teenagers themselves. Programs like Teens in the Driver Seat, backed by Texas A&M’s Transportation Institute, are spreading awareness in schools across the state. Students involved in the program have launched poster campaigns, school-wide pledges, and even redesigned senior parking lots to reinforce safe driving messages.
Beyond Texas, national initiatives are also gaining ground. Candace Lightner, founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, started the National Passenger Safety Campaign after realizing that nearly every teen she spoke with had been in a car with a distracted driver. Her solution? Empower passengers to speak up.
That effort has led to National Passenger Safety Week, an annual event designed to give teens the confidence to call out unsafe driving — whether it’s a friend, a parent, or a rideshare driver.
If a driver is drunk, high, or too distracted to drive safely, passengers may feel pressured to stay quiet, but speaking up could save lives. Teens and passengers in these situations can:
- Refuse to get in the car – If the driver is impaired, finding another way home is safer.
- Offer to drive instead – If legally able to drive, switching places can prevent a dangerous situation.
- Suggest an alternative ride – Calling a parent, rideshare, or a sober friend can be a better option.
- Use distraction to delay the trip – Saying something like “I forgot my phone inside” can buy time to call for help.
- Be direct and firm – Statements like “I don’t feel safe with you driving” or “Let’s not risk it” can make an impact.
Passengers have the right to protect themselves and others on the road. Knowing what to say or do in the moment can prevent a tragic accident.
Holding distracted drivers accountable
Despite growing awareness, distracted driving continues to ruin lives. Victims are left with severe injuries, massive medical bills, and, in some cases, the loss of a loved one. When a driver causes a crash because they were texting, scrolling, or otherwise distracted, they should be held accountable.
Proving distraction isn’t always easy, but an experienced car accident lawyer can investigate phone records, traffic footage, and witness statements to build a strong case. For those injured by a distracted driver, taking legal action may be the only way to recover financially — and in some cases, it can also help push for stronger laws and safer roads.
Teens are fighting to change the culture around distracted driving. But until drivers take responsibility, victims shouldn’t have to suffer alone.
Injured by a distracted driver? Get the legal help you need today
Don’t let a distracted driver’s negligence go unanswered. Contact John R. Solis, Attorney at Law, today to discuss your legal options with an experienced distracted driving accident lawyer in Laredo. Evidence disappears quickly, and waiting could impact your case.
Contact us for a free consultation. Our firm proudly serves English and Spanish-speaking clients in Laredo, the Rio Grande Valley, and San Antonio.
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