Millions of motor vehicle accidents occur each year throughout the United States. For the past decade, at least 3,000 people have died on Texas roads each year. In the last reported year, over 17,000 people suffered serious injuries during automobile accidents in Texas. An unfortunate byproduct of increasing technology in our society has been a marked uptick in texting and driving and related accidents and injuries.
In the 2017 legislative session, the Texas legislature will consider whether to enact a law restricting the use of cell phones and other devices while driving. The bill, which has been introduced by Representative Tom Craddick, would make it an offense for a driver to “read, write, or send an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped.” The bill made it through the Transportation Committee and is set to be heard by the legislature this year. While some municipalities have restricted cell phone usage, there are currently no statewide prohibitions on texting and driving. House Bill No. 62, if passed, would mark a seismic shift in favor of protecting public health.
Drivers and passengers in Texas are exposed to a serious risk of injury or death from the negligence of others while on the road. If you have been injured or your loved one has been killed in an automobile accident, contact the lawyers at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner for your free consultation. Our attorneys have successfully resolved hundreds of motor vehicle accidents. Contact us today for your free consultation by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 713-222-7211.